Kochi Biennale Venue Shuts Amid 'Last Supper' Artwork Controversy

• Kochi-Muziris Biennale venue temporarily shut due to protests over an artwork depicting Christ’s ‘Last Supper’.
• Artist Tom Vattakuzhy's painting, part of the ‘Idam’ exhibition, sparked outrage among Catholic and other Christian groups.
• Protesters, including Kerala Latin Catholic Association, claimed the artwork hurt religious sentiments and disrespected traditional depictions.
• The venue closure was a precautionary measure to prevent law-and-order issues during the New Year period, with reopening slated for January 2.
• Artist Tom Vattakuzhy rejected allegations, stating his work reflects Christian values of tenderness, compassion, and humanism.

Why It Matters: Kochi Biennale venue closed due to controversy over 'Last Supper' artwork, sparking debate on religious sentiment vs. artistic freedom.