Portrait of Bhupen Khakhar (1934 – 2003)

Artist Birendra Pani (born 1969)

dated 2004, Acrylic on canvas
66 x 42 in. (167.6 x 106.7 cm.)

Titled “Beyond Duality”, this poignant 2004 painting by Birendra Pani pays tribute to the legendary artist Bhupen Khakhar, capturing the dual aspects of his life—with reverence and layered symbolism. The canvas is split horizontally where the upper part shows Khakhar seated, haloed, and painting a rose. It references his iconic work “Man with Plastic Flowers.” His shadow behind wields a brush, suggesting his creative spirit transcending the mortal realm. The lower part portrays Khakhar lying down, his body aligned with yellow chakra points, symbolizing the soul’s journey or release.

Bhupen Khakhar, a trained chartered accountant who left a secure profession to follow his artistic calling, was one of India’s most important narrative painters. He became renowned for infusing everyday middle-class Indian life with complex themes of sexuality, identity, and spirituality—often drawn from personal experience. His boldness in expressing gay identity and tackling socio-political issues has been groundbreaking for Indian art.

Birendra Pani, known for vibrant and socially conscious works, here explores Khakhar’s transition from worldly engagement to artistic immortality. By showing him with a pen, mobile, and paper, Pani nods to his earlier life as an accountant. The brush and rose signify his lasting legacy as an artist. The painting honors Khakhar’s courage to break societal norms and live—and paint— authentically.