Punjabi Farmer

Oil on Canvas, 16" x 20", June 2023

This painting of a Punjabi farmer captures the unwavering spirit of the 2020–2021 farmers' protest in India, where predominantly Sikh farmers from Punjab, many of whom were elderly and economically disadvantaged, stood united against agricultural laws that would threaten their livelihoods.

In what became one of the largest and most sustained protests in history, these farmers braved harsh weather and challenging conditions, establishing camps on the outskirts of Delhi for over a year. Their resilience and solidarity, rooted in a deep connection to the land and a commitment to justice, ultimately led to the repeal of the contested laws.

Beyond protesting, they set up community kitchens (langars) and makeshift schools, providing food and education to locals in Delhi, thereby improving the conditions of the very streets where they protested.

This artwork pays tribute to their courage and the profound impact of their collective action.