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Jinnah’s portrait and the communalisation of a cafe in Kerala
A Gandhi-Jinnah artwork at a Kerala cafe has sparked a communal row. Influencer Diya Krishna added to the controversy with a “Sad reality” comment under the video, later defending herself by citing her Muslim friends and relatives. What’s behind the artwork, and why is that defence no answer to prejudice?
A painting of Gandhi and Muhammad Ali Jinnah has become the centre of a communal controversy in Kerala.
The artwork at Kashi Art Cafe in Fort Kochi was created by Malayali artist Riyas Komu in 2008. But a north Indian influencer questioned why the cafe displayed Jinnah’s portrait, served beef and was located in an area with a Muslim population.
The controversy widened after influencer Diya Krishna commented “Sad reality” under the video and later defended herself by citing her Muslim friends and relatives.
What is the story behind the artwork? And why is that defence problematic?
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