Bharat Mata
Can I see it?
Not on view at present
Where is “Bharat Mata” now? Collection: Victoria and Albert Museum, London. Not on view at present. Checked September 25, 2026.
London, United Kingdom
It belongs to the collection, but is not on display at present.
- Checked
- In this state since
- Source
- The museum
About the painting
In this painting, the image of Bharat Mata, or 'Mother India', has been cleverly subverted into this wry satire on Indias current social and political status. India, as a tree, is nobly defended by its female protectress, while storm clouds and high winds gather. A group of rats, representing India's various political factions inexorably gnaw away at its trunk, creating hollowness within. The ring of weapons and barbed wire around the composition symbolises the Indian army, ready to defend the nation from perceived threats.
Victoria and Albert Museum
Details
- Accession number
- IS.51-2011
In the catalog
Sources
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Image: Victoria and Albert Museum — © Victoria and Albert Museum, London
