An ‘abstract’ statue of Mahatma Gandhi is at the centre of a huge row in Kerala’s Guruvayur.
A statue of Mahatma Gandhi is at the centre of a huge row in Kerala’s Guruvayur. The statue, complete with spectacles and a walking stick, was unveiled recently at the Bio Park. However, locals have claimed it bears “little to no resemblance” to the Father of the Nation.
An NDTV report states that as the statue was unveiled by Guruvayur Municipality Chairman M Krishnadas and IAS officer Divya S Iyer, witnesses said the crowd was taken aback, with several whispering in disbelief, “Is this Gandhiji?”
Opposition parties criticised the statue, accusing the civic body of insulting Mahatma Gandhi. Internet users also joined in, with one user on X writing, “Another Gem from 100% Literate Kerala!! If you are wondering who is depicted in the statue, then it’s supposed to be Gandhiji!! This latest gaffe is installed at Guruvayur Municipal Park.”
The sculptor, however, defended his work, saying, “I infused Gandhian ideas into the design.” He said that the work was meant to be abstract.
The municipality backed the sculptor, saying the statue was “just an abstract form”, with Chairman Krishnadas dismissing any allegations of deliberate insult. He, however, assured that the statue would be later completed to better reflect Gandhi’s likeness.