US Denies Visas to Sculptor Arun Yogiraj and Family Ahead of Conference
- US denies visa to Arun Yogiraj and his family for the World Kannada Conference-2024 in Richmond, Virginia.
- Sculptor Arun Yogiraj was denied visas to visit the event in the United States.
- The denial of visas has caused disappointment to the sculptor and his family.
In a surprising turn of events, the United States has denied visit visas to renowned sculptor Arun Yogiraj and his family. Yogiraj, celebrated for creating the iconic Balarama idol for the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, was set to attend the World Kannada Conference 2024. This significant event, organized by the Association of Kannada Kootas of America, is scheduled to take place from August 30 to September 1 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center in Richmond, Virginia. Yogiraj's family expressed their disappointment and confusion regarding the visa rejection. The sculptor had applied for the visas two months prior to the event, only to receive a denial on August 10. The unexpected nature of the decision has left them feeling disheartened, especially given the importance of the conference to the Kannada community. Despite the high-profile nature of the event and Yogiraj's contributions to Indian art, the US Embassy has not provided any explanation for the visa denial. This lack of clarity has raised questions about the criteria used in the visa application process, particularly for artists and cultural figures seeking to participate in international events. The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding visa policies and their impact on cultural exchange. As the World Kannada Conference approaches, the absence of Yogiraj and his family will be felt, underscoring the challenges faced by artists in navigating international travel regulations.