Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has publicly supported her son, photographer and artist Raihan Vadra, after more than 70 photographs were removed from his exhibition at Delhi's Bikaner House, triggering a controversy over artistic freedom and political expression.
Raihan alleged that the venue removed all 70-plus photographs despite his cooperation, without providing a clear explanation. The photographs were part of his solo exhibition, titled No Idea Is Final, which featured work documenting youth movements and protests, alongside wildlife and abstract photography.
In a post on X on Thursday, Priyanka urged her son to stand by the truth and expressed pride in him amid the controversy.
"When someone with power becomes afraid of the expression of another, he doesn't know it, but he has already lost the very power he is trying to protect. You stand for what is true and everything beautiful will find its way to you. I am proud of you, always will be. ❤️ mama," she wrote.
Raihan alleges photographs were removed without explanation
According to reports, Raihan said the Bikaner House management objected to the political nature of some photographs documenting youth movements and protests over the past six months. He alleged that he was asked to remove around 74 images shortly before the exhibition was scheduled to open on Wednesday evening.
Raihan also claimed that two photographs featuring the Indian Tricolour were among the images he was asked to remove. He said he had cooperated with the organisers but questioned why the photographs were removed despite the exhibition layout having been shared in advance.
Reports said he was given a short deadline to remove the images or risk cancellation of the exhibition. The show eventually opened with a reduced collection of photographs on display.
Raihan plans to exhibit the removed photographs elsewhere
Following the incident, Raihan indicated that he intended to display the removed photographs at another venue. His work, he said, documented events and movements he had observed over several months.
The controversy has sparked a wider debate over artistic freedom, political expression and the role of public institutions in hosting exhibitions. The reported removal of the photographs has drawn criticism from political figures and raised questions about the limits placed on creative work in public spaces.
Priyanka's message has added a personal dimension to the dispute, with the Congress leader standing by her son and encouraging him to remain committed to what he believes is true.
