New Delhi

Doha city of Qatar has set up a museum in memory of the late Indian artist Maqbool Fida Hussain, who had to live in exile in the last years of his life due to his paintings on the Goddess provoking the ire of the Hindu right-wingers and court cases.

The museum houses more than 150 works, including paintings, films, textiles, photographs, and personal items of the late artist.

Some of these are being displayed publicly for the first time, Qatari media said.

Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, inaugurated the 'Lawh Wa Qalam' museum in Education City, to celebrate the legacy of late Indian artist Maqbool Fida Husain.

Naseer described Husain as "one such legendary artist - a true master whose artistic works transcend borders and connect cultures, histories, and identities".

She said the museum fulfils the late artist's dream, providing a space to display highlights of his life and work "based on an illustration sketched by the artist himself".

Following the opening, Sheikha Moza toured the museum's galleries, which trace Husain's artistic journey, exploring themes of faith, philosophy, cultural diversity, and his Yemeni roots. The museum also reflects his engagement with Arab civilisation and his pursuit of unity amid diversity.

The ceremony was attended by the Vice Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al-Thani; Members of the Royal family, Sheikhs and ministers, along with an international assembly of art collectors and experts.

The museum houses more than 150 works, including paintings, films, textiles, photographs, and personal items, some of which are being displayed publicly for the first time.

It features the artist's final masterpiece, "Seeroo fi al ardh" completed posthumously in 2019 under Qatar Foundation's guidance.

Designed by Husain himself, the museum serves as an educational and cultural hub, encouraging visitors to explore his creative journey.

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Facilities include a library, a creativity corner, a gift shop, a cafe, and a hall for lectures and events. It will open to the public from Saturday to Thursday, 10 AM to 5 PM, and on Fridays from 1:30 PM to 7:30 PM, closing on Mondays and public holidays.