This art critic knows how to take things in his stride

Manpriya Singh

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, April 14

When your forte cuts through the disciplines of books, history and art, one would think that lockdown doesn’t mean much, or at least doesn’t mean a different life. Renowned art historian and art critic Dr BN Goswamy agrees to that being true at some level. As for the rest, the Padma Bhushan knows how to take things in his stride.

“To be honest, I am not missing art openings, inaugurations and appearances much. I don’t have any compulsions to impart a lecture every week,” he says, adding how his personal routine at home pretty much stays unaffected post lockdown, right from his early mornings to time on the computer.

During times, when social distancing is a movement and not just a word, of missing company and human interaction, he cites a couplet of Ghalib that is just as relevant in current times, “Hai Aadmi Bajaa-e-khud ik Mehshar E Khayaal, Ham Anjuman Samajhtey Hain Khalwat Hi Kyun Na Ho.” (By and in himself, man consists of a swarm, a tumult of thoughts; At least I feel as if I am in company, even when I am by myself).

When last year, his latest book, almost 27th or so, came out, he’d thought of taking a sabbatical. But in the past few days, he finds himself grappling with three ideas out of which he has to zero in on one.

“I am using this time to know what this virus means and what should one do. One way to put it would also be that Gods are angry with us or so it seems.” However, lockdown has also meant more time with his family, comprising his children and grandchildren. “My granddaughter Damini is fond of going out, but she is taking things in her stride perfectly.” Family time also means, “That we all sit together and watch a movie.” After every family movie session, follows a tradition just as enviable.

“We all comment, analyse, exchange thoughts and that goes on for quite some time,” he laughs, adding how the movie that he recently enjoyed was “Fury”. A significant part of the time is also spent with daily newspapers, four of which he subscribes to, and there’s no denying the virus making its way to each of the pages on each of the publications.

“They are trying to fill your mind, heart and conscience with Covid,” says the Padma Bhushan, who lately has also been filled with thoughts on life after the virus. “I do try to analyse as to what is this going to do with human relations. Especially given the fact that we are quick to let the trust suffer and suspicion set in.” If only we can come out unscathed, psychologically too.