Chandigarh: The family of celebrated artist Shobha Singh has raised objections to the unauthorised use of his iconic painting of Guru Hargobind Sahib by the Punjab government. The artwork, known for its deep spiritual and cultural significance, was reportedly used without credit or permission on official social media platforms.
Hirdepal Singh, the grandson of the late artist, told media that not only was the painting shared without formal approval, but the artist’s signature was also removed.
“We are not seeking financial compensation. Our only request was that the government take formal permission from Shobha Singh’s family,” he said. “Removing his signature before circulating the image publicly is deeply disappointing.”
In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Hirdepal Singh alleged that the state’s Department of Information and Public Relations shared the artwork across multiple platforms without any official communication or consent.
He added that the painting is registered under the Government of India’s Copyright Act, and all publishing rights are reserved with the artist’s family.
Calling it a clear case of copyright infringement, Singh said the action was “highly regrettable” and urged the Chief Minister to take appropriate measures against those responsible.
“It is deeply regrettable that such neglect has been done towards the legacy of Shobha Singh ji, who was honoured as a state artist by the Punjab government in 1973,” the letter read.
Singh further said the family has always maintained a cordial relationship with the state government and would have willingly granted permission if approached. “We are confident that such a mistake will not be repeated in the
