Sobha Singh’s family objects to unauthorised use of Guru Hargobind painting by Punjab govt

The family of legendary artist Sardar Sobha Singh, who has created paintings of Sikh Gurus, on Monday raised objections against the unauthorised use of his painting of Guru Hargobind Sahib by the Punjab government.

Speaking to The Tribune, Sobha Singh’s grandson, Hirday Paul Singh, said that what was more appalling was that the painting has been used without giving credit to the artist.

“We are not demanding financial compensation. Our only request was that the government formally seek permission from Sobha Singh’s family. Besides, the officials even removed the artist’s signature from the painting before sharing it on public platforms,” he said.

In a letter addressed to CM Bhagwant Mann, Hirday has alleged that the Department of Information and Public Relations used the painting across various social media platforms without authorisation.

He has further stated that the artwork is registered under the Copyright Act with the Government of India, and all publishing rights are reserved by the artist’s family.

“Its use without permission, along with the removal of the artist’s name, constitutes a clear case of copyright infringement,” Hirday wrote.

Calling the act “deeply regrettable,” he requested the CM to take appropriate action against those responsible.

“It is deeply regrettable that such disregard has been shown toward the legacy of Sobha Singh Ji, who was honoured as the State Artist by the Punjab Government in 1973,” the letter read.

Hirday added that the family shares a longstanding cordial relationship with the Punjab Government and would have “gladly permitted the use of the painting if approached formally.”

“We trust this oversight will not be repeated in the future,” he concluded the letter.