Controversies related to MF should be laid to rest: Thackerays

The death of eminent artist MF Hussain seems to have changed the tone and language of his staunch critics - the Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray and MNS chief Raj Thackeray.

The death of eminent artist MF Hussain seems to have changed the tone and language of his staunch critic the Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray and MNS chief Raj Thackeray.

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Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray, who has been a bitter critic of Husain for his painting depicting Hindu dieties in "poor light", said he prayed for peace to the soul of the artist.

"Damage may have been caused to modern art due to his demise. Thats all. May Allah give him peace," Thackeray
said. He went on to add: "as an artist, everyone has a domain and Husain handled his modern art with zeal. However,
he 'slipped' while drawing paintings of Hindu gods and goddesses."

However, MNS chief Raj Thackeray said all controversies related to paintings of renowned painter Husain should be laid to rest with his demise.

"Husain was a national asset and his contribution to the field of Indian art can never be overlooked. Whatever
controversies happened should be laid to rest with his passing and if his family wishes to bring back the mortal
remains home, it should be allowed," Raj said.

He said Husain should be accorded appropriate respect. The MNS president, himself a cartoonist, said Pandharpur-born Husain was deeply associated with Maharashtra where his art blossomed and gained international recognition.

With PTI inputs