Saeed Mirza at the exhibition Photo: Mohemad Saeed Mirza at the exhibition Photo: Mohemad

“When Prem Behari Narain Raizadaslot park, the calligrapher, was asked by Pandit Nehru to handwrite the Indian Constitution, his only condition was that he would put his signature 'PREM' on all the pages. So, apart from the proclamations and promises of a Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic, the Constitution also holds on every page the key word 'Prem.' This calligraphic gesture is an act of solidarity as well as remembrance and reminding. It forms an integral part of our Constitution, filled with hope and vigilance about the world. And it continues to stare at us.”

Riyas Komu’s exhibition on the Constitution, being held at Kashi Art Café in Fort Kochi, opens with this statement. The exhibition, an exploration of the gap between the ideals and realities of Indian democracy, is a continuation of his 2018 series Holy Shiver, conducted at Vadehra Art Gallery, New Delhi.

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Riyas Komu's exhibition Photo: Mohemad A Riyas Komu's exhibition Photo: Mohemad A

“The title Holy Shiver refers to a concept discussed by Austrian zoologist Konrad Lorenz in his book On Aggression. Lorenz describes the behavioral instinct to kill or die in defense of one's community, explaining how this instinct physically manifests as a tingling sensation along the spine—a primal reflex linked to the raising of an animal’s hair in preparation for a fight when facing an enemy. This communal defense mechanism serves as an example of what drives individuals to kill,” Riyas explains, contextualizing the premise of his new series on the Constitution.

“These are stories inspired by experiences from the daily lives of a people and a nation. These are also conversations with history. The images—people, incidents, places—are pauses in this narrative of pain, peace, dissent, dialogue, and destruction,” explains Riyas.

Fascinated by the illustrations in the Constitution by Nandalal Bose and a team of artists, Riyas explores the many meanings of the Preamble, placing it in the contemporary political context. The exhibition begins by highlighting the key principles enshrined in the Preamble—justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. As the series progresses, these ideas become fragmented and eventually fade into blankness. This symbolism appears to comment on the erosion of constitutional values in contemporary politics.

“This illustration is very powerful,” says Saeed Akhtar Mirza, who was present at Kashi Art Gallery. “The diminishing Preamble, which becomes completely dark towards the end, is a powerful narration of contemporary Indian political reality,” says Mirza. “Art should not be exclusive; it should connect with people. The way Riyas illustrates the Constitution converses with people,” he adds.

Riyas Komu's exhibition Photo: Mohemad A Riyas Komu's exhibition Photo: Mohemad A

Upon entering Kashi Art Gallery, one is struck by the portrait of Gandhi and Ambedkar—a blend of the two, yet fragmented as well. The distorted depiction of Gandhi and Ambedkar's faces in the portrait initially creates a sense of discomfort and disruption. However, upon closer and repeated viewing, a more cohesive and harmonious blend of the two iconic figures emerges.

This visual interplay seems to mirror the complex relationship between Gandhi and Ambedkar—who, despite their differences, were both instrumental in shaping India's Constitution. The way the distorted features ultimately coalesce into a more integrated whole suggests the possibility of reconciling divergent viewpoints and legacies. It invites viewers to move beyond simplistic binaries and instead appreciate the nuances and interconnectedness of India's historical figures and the founding principles they fought for. In the current climate of increasing polarization, this display of art encourages one to look beneath the surface, resist oversimplified narratives, and seek common ground—even in the face of apparent discord. The harmonious blend that emerges from the initial fragmentation reminds viewers of the importance of conversations on democracy amidst conflicting circumstances.

Next to this portrait is the illustration of the fatal moment when “the light was gone from our lives”—the death of Gandhi at 5:17 PM. The large illustration of the time serves as a poignant reference to this decisive moment in India’s historyslot park, prompting viewers to pause and reflect on the weight of that moment—the transition from life to death, from Gandhi's vision to the void left in its wake.

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