shot-button
Subscription Subscription
Home > Mumbai > Mumbai News > Article > Mumbai double murder accused Chintan paints his pain on canvas

Mumbai double murder accused Chintan paints his pain on canvas

Updated on: 24 August,2017 08:35 AM IST  |  Mumbai
Vijay Kumar Yadav |

Celebrated artist Chintan Upadhyay, who is lodged in Thane Central Jail, faces trial for the murder of his ex-wife Hema Upadhyay and her lawyer Harish Bhambhani

Mumbai double murder accused Chintan paints his pain on canvas

The 6x5 ft painting is a metaphor for pining for freedom while trapped behind bars
The 6x5 ft painting is a metaphor for pining for freedom while trapped behind bars


Freedom may be out of reach for celebrated artist Chintan Upadhyay while he faces trial for the murder of his ex-wife Hema and her lawyer, but ironically, his painting on the theme of incarceration and freedom could soon escape the prison and make its way to the walls of the chief minister's office.


Chintan Upadhyay
Chintan Upadhyay


Chintan, who is lodged in Thane Central Jail, has impressed the authorities with his Painting, which captures what it means to pine for freedom behind bars. The 6x5 ft painting, made by joining two canvas frames together, depicts an incarcerated zebra, bleeding from its hoof.

Also read - Hema Upadhyay-Harish Bhambhani murder: Chintan Upadhyay files discharge application

Chintan during a performance art piece
Chintan during a performance art piece

Jail officials did not miss the irony behind the artwork or its title, 'Freedom', but were stirred by its intensity and surreal imagery. The prison authorities were so taken by artwork that they are now considering presenting it to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, as a gift from the state prison department, sources told mid-day.

Also read: Have enough proof to nail Chintan Upadhyay, says Ujjwal Nikam

Cure for depression
Upadhyay started painting a few months ago, on the suggestion of jail authorities, who noticed that he was slipping into depression. "Recently, he also carried out a workshop at Thane jail for other inmates. His work is impeccable," said Kavita Shivdasani, founder of Dagar Pathway Trust, which sponsored the workshop.

Also read - Hema Upadhyay murder: Killer Vidhyadhar Rajbhar still at large!

'Freedom' was supposed to be one of three paintings that Upadhyay had made for a prisoners' art exhibition in New Delhi. Nearly two dozen paintings have been sent from various prisons across the state.

Also read - Mumbai: Hema Upadhyay, Harish Bhambhani murders planned 2 months before crime

"The painting was too big to be sent to Delhi. It is presently in the office of Rajvardhan Sinha, IG (prisons), in Byculla," a source said. Upadhyay had earlier also gifted a painting to Sinha.


You may also like - Genitals chopped off, private parts mutilated: 11 gruesome crime cases
Genitals chopped off, private parts mutilated: 11 gruesome crime cases

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!


Mid-Day Web Stories

Mid-Day Web Stories

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK