Mumbai, September 16 (Daily Kiran) : M.F. Husain is synonymous with a transformative vision of Indian art. With his tall stature, brush in hand, and bare feet, he became an iconic figure in the art world. His choice to walk barefoot was deeply symbolic, stemming from his respect for poetry. Husain once recounted that he removed his shoes after attending the funeral of renowned poet Gajanan Madhav Muktibodh, a gesture that resonated with him profoundly.
Born on September 17, 1915, in Pandharpur, Maharashtra, Husain spent his childhood in Indore. The early loss of his mother left a lasting impact on his life and work, leading him to depict women and maternal figures through a unique lens in his art. He often reflected on his childhood memories, noting that the absence of his mother shaped his creative expression.
Husain’s artistic inclinations emerged early. In the 1930s, he began painting film hoardings and posters in Mumbai, a common practice at the time. This work allowed him to sustain himself while honing his craft.
In 1947, Husain became a founding member of the Progressive Artists’ Group, aimed at reinterpreting Indian art and merging it with modern styles. His paintings began to reflect Indian culture, everyday life, and historical themes, gradually gaining recognition both nationally and internationally. His work was showcased in exhibitions across India and abroad during the 1950s and 1960s, earning him accolades, including an award at the Tokyo Biennale in 1959.
The reason behind Husain’s barefoot walks often sparked curiosity. After Muktibodh’s passing, Husain attended his funeral, expressing his admiration for the poet. He lamented that Muktibodh did not receive the recognition he deserved during his lifetime. In a heartfelt tribute, Husain walked barefoot on the scorching tar roads of May, symbolizing his empathy for the poet’s struggles.
Husain’s talents extended beyond painting; he ventured into cinema as well. In 1967, he directed “Through the Eyes of a Painter,” showcasing the colors and life of Rajasthan from his perspective. The film won the prestigious Golden Bear at the Berlin Film Festival. He later produced films like “Gaja Gamini” and “Meenakshi: A Tale of Three Cities.”
Throughout his illustrious career, Husain received numerous honors, including the Padma Shri in 1966, the Padma Bhushan in 1973, and the Padma Vibhushan in 1991. He was invited to the São Paulo Biennale in 1971 alongside Pablo Picasso. His paintings of horses gained particular fame, though his work also sparked controversy, leading to threats against him. Following tensions in 2006, he spent much of his later life abroad and eventually acquired Qatari citizenship. Husain passed away on June 9, 2011, in London at the age of 95.
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