US denies visa to Arun Yogiraj
The US Consulate in Chennai has recently denied a visa application from celebrated sculptor Arun Yogiraj, best known for his work on the Ram Lalla idol at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
The decision has also extended to Yogiraj’s family members, who were seeking visas to accompany him.
The US Embassy officials, however, did not provide any specific reason for the visa refusal. They just submitted that Yogiraj had not fulfilled the necessary formalities.
Yogiraj had applied for a visa to travel to the United States to participate in a felicitation program organized by the Akka Foundation. His itinerary included a 20-day trip to attend various other events and engagements across different locations in the U.S.
The denial has sparked concerns and discussions within the art and cultural communities, as Yogiraj’s contributions to Indian art and culture have been widely recognized and celebrated. The reasons behind the visa rejection have not been disclosed by the consulate, and efforts to obtain a comment from the U.S. Embassy have so far been unsuccessful.
The Akka Foundation, which had invited Yogiraj for the felicitation, expressed disappointment over the decision. “We were looking forward to honoring Mr. Yogiraj’s remarkable achievements and contributions to the art world. His presence was highly anticipated,” said a spokesperson for the foundation.
Speaking to the media, Yogiraj said that he was invited to the convention organized by the Akka Foundation in the US as the Chief Guest.
“I had submitted the invitation card and other documents as required. Our family traveled to Chennai to obtain the visa as per the appointment fixed there. The authorities at the US Consulate asked some questions and later informed us that the visa was denied to me and my family,” he said.
“They asked general questions and indicated that I had not met their requirements. I never imagined that obtaining a US visa would be so difficult. My children were excited because I had promised to take them along on this trip. They were disappointed, and I had to console them by promising another trip.
“I will not apply for the visa again this year… I will consider it next year. Had I received the visa, I would have had the opportunity to experience the art and architecture of the US and meet many artists. I am not too disappointed by this development,” he concluded.
Yogiraj, a prominent figure in Indian sculpture, had hoped that his visit would foster greater cultural exchange and strengthen ties between the artistic communities of the two countries. The artist and his family are currently exploring their options and considering potential steps forward in light of visa denial.
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Non fulfilment of necessary formalities is a excellent tool given by the Americans to away the American trash.