Lately, protests have become frequent in the city (and the country) --- whether it is the candle light vigil for Nirbhaya or the One Billion Rising to protest against violence against women. And, most protests usually include a walk, lighting candles or a dharna. On the same lines, various artists from the city got together on Wednesday to protest against terrorism (due to the recent twin blasts in Dilsukhnagar) --- however, their protest was a little different from the conventional way --- they decided to do so through the medium of art itself.
Initiated and organised by artist Ramana Reddy, this artistic protest is an expression of the artists’ anger and their want for peace and harmony in the country. “Most people think that artists don’t react or comment on social issues. This is our way of showing that we do react and we do care,” explained Reddy, who has travelled to various countries displaying his art. He believes that terrorism is like cancer and everyone will have to work very hard towards removing it completely. “The blast victims were people from different religions. Anyone who is involved in such an act of terrorism is anti-people and ultimately nobody will win in such a case,” added the artist.
But, when protest walks or candle light vigils itself don’t end up having a major impact, how will painting a few art pieces make any difference? To which, Reddy said, “When protest walks take place, people participate and forget about it the next day. However, when a person looks at a meaningful piece of art, its impact stays in the mind for a long time.” This is why he believes that youngsters should be asked to involve themselves in art --- as it makes them more positive.
The artistic protest saw the participation of various artists and art students from across the city. While some painted the picture of Buddha to convey the message of peace, some others painted the twin blasts scene at Dilsukhnagar to remind people of the unfortunate incident. Shared Ramani, an art student, who was painting a picture of Buddha, said, “Buddha symbolises peace. Since this protest is against terrorism, I thought the best way to express peace is by drawing a picture of Buddha. This is to spread the message of peace.”