Meanwhile, Congress workers also staged a protest at the Biennale venue, demanding the withdrawal of the painting.
Published Dec 31, 2025 | 2:48 PM ⚊ Updated Dec 31, 2025 | 2:48 PM
Kochi-Muziris Biennale.
Synopsis: Responding to the allegations, Vattakuzhy said his work does not hurt the sentiments of the Christian community. He clarified that the painting was inspired by Apamrithyu, a play and not by religious iconography.
A painting by artist Tom Vattakuzhy displayed at the Kochi-Muziris Biennale has sparked controversy, with several Christian groups alleging that it disrespectfully recreates Jesus Christ’s Last Supper.
Thomas, a native of Ernakulam, has filed complaints with the District Collector and the Kochi City Police Commissioner, seeking action against the artwork.
According to The Hindu report, the artwork was displayed as part of the ‘Edam’ exhibition at the Garden Convention Centre, Bazar Road. The venue was shut down temporarily on Tuesday, 30 December, following protests by various groups.
Meanwhile, Congress workers also staged a protest at the Biennale venue, demanding the withdrawal of the painting.
The report further noted that the Syro-Malabar Church alleged that the artwork distorted the Last Supper scene. The artwork was withdrawn after it was published in a magazine in December 2016 after protests by devotees. “We doubt whether it was displayed at the biennale intentionally to hurt the sentiments of the believers,” it alleged.
The Church stated that “freedom of expression remains vital to any democratic society. But it does not permit anyone to misrepresent religious beliefs,” it said.
Responding to the allegations, Vattakuzhy said his work does not hurt the sentiments of the Christian community. He clarified that the painting was inspired by Apamrithyu, a play and not by religious iconography.
(Edited by Sumavarsha, with inputs from Dileep V Kumar)
