Kerala CM Invites Rehan Vadra to Host Exhibition Amid Controversy
Keralas CM welcomes Rehan Vadras exhibition after controversy over removed artworks at Bikaner House.
Thiruvananthapuram, October 23 (Daily Kiran) : Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has extended an invitation to Rehan Vadra, son of Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, to host his exhibition titled “No Idea is Final” in the state. Satheesan expressed pride in welcoming the exhibition, which has recently been at the center of a heated debate over censorship.
His remarks came after Congress accused officials and the central government of stifling artistic expression. The controversy began when Bikaner House requested the removal of several artworks from Rehan’s exhibition.
The Chief Minister announced that the exhibition could proceed without any alterations or cuts. This invitation follows the removal of over 70 paintings from Rehan’s exhibition, which raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about freedom of expression.
In a response to Priyanka Gandhi’s social media posts, Satheesan stated on the platform X, “Kerala will be proud to host Rehan Vadra’s exhibition ‘No Idea is Final’ without any cuts or changes.”
Earlier on Thursday, it was reported that many artworks were removed from the exhibition at Bikaner House in Delhi. Out of a total of 105 artworks prepared, 74 were taken down, most of which depicted youth protests and events linked to Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi.
Rehan shared that he was informed of the removals just hours before the exhibition’s opening and alleged that some pieces featuring the national flag were among those taken down.
The Congress party criticized this action, labeling it an infringement on freedom of expression, while Bikaner House officials maintained that the decision was made to comply with institutional policies. Priyanka Gandhi publicly supported her son, asserting that it is inappropriate for those in power to fear the expression of others.
On the same day, Congress MP from Wayanad, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, voiced her support for Rehan on X, stating, “When someone in power fears another’s expression, they lose the very power they seek to protect. Stand with the truth, and everything beautiful will come to you. I am proud of you, and will always be.”
The Congress party has also accused the government of attempting to suppress the voices of youth. BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia criticized Congress for trying to politicize Rehan’s work, emphasizing that Bikaner House has a policy against displaying political art.
Meanwhile, the Bikaner House Management Society clarified that the artworks removed did not align with the institution’s policies. They confirmed that only pieces compliant with these standards are currently on display, with a focus on wildlife art.
