Punjab Research Group

Punjab’s Icons: Sagoo’s Exercise in Remembrance

Tajender has suceeded in doing two things; firstly providing access to a beloved Punjab icon to a new audience via the choice of venue and secondly opening up the debate on the secular / religious nature of the icon’s actions. Both points will be remembered for the pioneering medium of exhibition used.

Textiles, paper and heraldic colours adorning the reading room do more than prick the imagination, they blow a gale force into the psyche. In some ways the vividness of the room are a delicate balance to the colours often association with the popular images of Udham Singh. Black and White photos, black typewritten scripts of the Police reports are countered with pastel yellows and reds, solid textile print essays remind the visitor of seriousness of the exhibition.

Recounting all the names that Udham Singh was known for is also an admirable task, as it invites the visitor to consider that an itinerant Sikh could be a freedom fighter that was also called Frank Brasil. Finally referencing academic works and engaging with the commentariat make this exhibition a dialectic joy. Go and see it.

Viewing is by appointment, which only adds to the verbosity of the experience.

Pop Samiti Studio

Limehouse Town

646 Commercial Road

London

E14 7HA

http://www.popsamiti.org

Open every Friday, Saturday & Sunday 12 – 6pm.

Admission Free