The Gufa, a marvel in modern architecture in its own right, had to be closed for a long period. And when it reopened after a few years, it was attacked again.

The authorities, which are supposed to take action, showed exemplary restraint, as they seemed wary of hurting common sentiments.

In fact, Hussain has been the favourite punching bag of the moral police in Gujarat and elsewhere because for his knack of courting controversy.

Earlier also he was criticised for his portrayal of goddess Saraswati (1996) and Sita (1998) and more recently of Bharatmata (2006).

But from this, one need not have a feeling that Husain has been the only target of the moral brigade. Freedom of expression per se has come under the saffron scanner time and again irrespective of its form and the performers.

For instance, the films made with themes surrounding the post-Godhra riots were targetted for its content. Rakesh Sharma’s “Final Solution” (2004) and Rahul Dholakia’s “Parzania” besides Amir Khan’s “Fanaa” (2007) and “Taare Zameen Par” (2008) are a case in point.

While the first two films faced the rage for their attempt to put the majority community in poor light, the latter two were opposed because Aamir had raised voice for the Narmada evacuees.

In these cases, the authorities clearly said that there was no “official” ban on the movies, which implied that popular sentiments could not be curbed even if a set of individuals take law into own hands.

The most glaring case of intolerance was seen during the persecution of Chandramohan Srimantula, a student at the Faculty of Fine Arts at M S University of Baroda.

He was slapped with a criminal case for painting Durga and Shivlinga in an “objectionable” manner in view of the BJP activists led by Niraj Jain.

Going by these cases, instances of putting ban on fashion shows, beauty pageants and celebration of Valentine’s Day in the State look normal.

Dust over today’s incident may settle down in a few days with the armchair intellectuals and the Opposition condemning it, the ruling party distancing itself from it and the government promising appropriate action. But of course, it will be till the next such episode surfaces.