New Delhi: Artist and photographer Raihan Vadra, son of Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, has alleged censorship after more than 70 photographs documenting recent youth protests in the national capital were removed from his solo exhibition at Bikaner House just hours before its opening.
The exhibition, titled ‘No Idea Is Final’, was originally curated to display 105 photographs. According to Raihan, the Bikaner House administration raised objections to the “political nature” of the images, which largely captured recent demonstrations at Jantar Mantar and other youth-led public movements. These included agitations raising concerns over alleged electoral anomalies. The artist claimed that he received a written ultimatum around 3:30 pm on October 21, directing him to remove the specific artworks by 5 pm or face the immediate cancellation of the entire show. Reports indicate that 74 photographs were ultimately taken down.
The dispute intensified when the management allegedly asked him to remove two pictures featuring the Indian national flag. Refusing to comply, Raihan took to social media, stating, “Apparently the content is ‘objectionable’. I have refused. I will not take down a picture of the Indian flag.” He maintained that he had shared the exhibition layout well in advance and his objective was merely to visually document public movements, not to propagate a specific political agenda.
While the venue’s administration reportedly cited non-compliance with their booking policy and an inappropriate “political climate” for the display, the incident has triggered sharp political reactions. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra heavily criticised the move, accusing the authorities of attempting to muzzle the voices of the youth and the creative freedom of artists. Several Congress leaders also condemned the removal of the national flag images.
Despite the controversy and the empty spaces on the gallery walls, the exhibition proceeded with the remaining artworks, featuring wildlife photography and abstract art. Raihan has announced his intention to exhibit the removed photographs at a different venue soon.