‘The Jallianwala Bagh: Repression and Retribution’ is a thought-provoking artwork by the Singh Twins which was first displayed at the Manchester Museum in the UK. FYI: If you’re in the neighbourhood, it is currently on show at Firstsite gallery, Colchester till September 11, 2022.
The three-piece panel places this horrific episode of colonial violence in its historical context—and shows how it not only became a turning point in India’s struggle for freedom from the British Raj. But it also raises powerful questions about state violence against civilian protests today. Over at The Heritage Lab, we offer a guided visual tour of the many wonderful details in this artwork—and decode their symbolism.
A parting image: This artwork by artist Eduard Thöny was published in the German satirical magazine Simplicissimus in 1920—and may be the first ever depiction of the massacre.
A special bonus: You can also take our quiz to test your knowledge about this defining moment in Indian history. We’re giving away 3 copies of Navtej Sarna’s ‘Crimson Spring’ published by Aleph Book Co. to winners of the quiz.