New Delhi: "Atankwad: Akhir Kyon, Kab Tak (Terrorism: why and till when)", wondered a painting that was part of the artistic works depicting terrorist strikes worldwide unveiled on December 13 marking the audacious terrorist attack on Parliament this day last year.

The cries for peace resounded from the paintings by noted artistes and presented in the form of an exhibition that was inaugurated by Vice-President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat at the Parliament House Annexe.

Red, symbolising blood, was dominant as the paintings showed a plane hitting the World Trade Centre tower, blood oozing out of a Buddha statue and people in agony due to conflicts.

"This day is important in the sense that it reminds the nation of the resolve to fight terrorism," remarked Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani after witnessing the exhibition.

Stating that the entire nation needed to fight terrorism united, he expressed confidence that the exhibition would strengthen the nation's resolve in this direction.

"This is a token gesture which is not going to shake anybody," commented famous artist Jatin Das.

"But the idea of this exhibition is to draw attention of the public towards the innumerable dangers posed by terrorism amid growing consumerism as all need to fight the menace united," he added.

Das said while the artiste community could do nothing about the happenings in the world, it was contributing through paintings to create a public awareness on dangers.

Describing the exhibition "symbolic" as it was being held in Parliament House complex and on December 13, noted artist Ila Menon said, "its objective would be achieved only if it succeeded in sending out a message of peace".

Rekha Mody, chairperson of exhibition organiser Habiart Foundation, described the display of paintings as a "creative protest" aimed at sending out a "message of peace".

PTI