Controversy erupts after ‘protest’ photographs by Priyanka Gandhi’s son allegedly get removed from Bikaner House exhibition

“Five hours ago, the Bikaner House Management forced me to remove the bulk of the artworks displayed in my show 'No Idea Is Final”, which opens this evening at 7 p.m.. The photos were of the youth protests in Delhi. Apparently the content is objectionable,” says Raihan Vadra

Updated - October 22, 2026 07:22 am IST - New Delhi

Artist and Photographer Raihan Vadra, son of Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, with one of his photographs at Bikaner House, New Delhi, October 21, 2026.. | Photo Credit: PTI

Controversy erupted after visual artist and photographer Raihan Vadra, son of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, took to social media on Wednesday (October 21, 2026) and alleged that the management of Bikaner House has removed many of his photographs documenting recent protests and youth movements in India.

Titled “No Idea Is Final”, the exhibition featured wildlife photography, abstract art and pictures documenting recent youth movements in India.

In a post on Instagram, Mr. Vadra wrote, “Five hours ago, the Bikaner House Management forced me to remove the bulk of the artworks displayed in my show 'No Idea Is Final”, which opens this evening at 7 p.m.. The photos were of the youth protests in Delhi. Apparently the content is objectionable.”

He further alleged that the authorities also directed him to remove two photos of the Tiranga.

“I have refused. I will not take down a picture of the Indian flag,” he said, adding that the show will go on in part for now, and he will find another venue and display the entire collection of protest photos.

According to reports, Mr. Vadra was told by the organisers, that it was not the appropriate time to display “such images”.

He argued that a detailed proposal and outline of the exhibition was shared well in advance with the management.

Responding to the development, Congress MP and chairman media and publicity department Pawan Khera questioned the “offence” in clicking protest.

“When even the Tricolour isn’t safe from the censor’s scissors, perhaps the problem isn’t the art. It’s the regime,” he wrote on X.

He added that the photographs merely documented protests, and not one was derogatory or inflammatory.

“Imagine a government so threatened by ideas that not just protests, but even photographs of protests — and the Tricolour itself — have become intolerable. The end must be close,” he said.

The Hindu reached out to the Resident Commissioner, Bikaner House, Rohit Kumar, to seek a response on the issue, but he neither responded to calls nor texts.

Published - October 22, 2026 12:00 am IST

arts, culture and entertainment / arts (general)

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