“SHELTERED: The Italians Who Saved the Escaped Indian Prisoners”

During World War II, 2.5 million Indians “volunteered” for their colonizers, the British. The visual artwork, “THE UNREMEMBERED,” poignantly explores this layered, complex, and largely unknown history, giving voice and a face to the unacknowledged protagonists. Through this ongoing work, Palakunnathu Matthew has been able to connect with the descendants of courageous Italian families who, despite the inherent risks, harbored and safeguarded escaped Indian prisoners of war. With this fellowship, Palakunnathu Matthew will follow up with new Italian connections and collect their oral histories and family photographs, providing invaluable insights into the experiences and motivations underlying these remarkable acts of humanity amidst the turmoil of war, enriching the final iteration of the art installation. The courage and compassion demonstrated by the Italian families offer hope amidst the tumult of warfare.