Hi Paul
I thought the effect was probably intentional too, could you explain what you mean by "cross processed" I'm showing my inexperience with digital processing again, but it's the only way to learn.....
"Cross processing" is a term that harkens back to color film development. Specifically, to intentionally using the "wrong" developer. For example, using print film chemicals for transparencies, or vice-versa. This produces stark results, particularly over-saturated reds, blues, and greens with extremely high contrast.
Several plug-in developers have created analogous effects for the digital darkroom and you'll find "cross-processing" filters available in quite a few suites of these widgets. This portrait is an example of the results of one of these cross-processing filter effects.
This effect can be effective for certain expressive bodies of photographic art work. But it has also become solidly cliche pastiche very fast. (It actually became cliche when it was first used in the 1960's.)
Whether or not this produced a good keepsake only Husain can say. The image looks like it might have been a much stronger without the effect. There are few subjects that offer more powerful potential than a child's face keenly photographed.
In general I recommend eschewing reliance on such gimmicks, particularly for personal work. Advertising / entertainment work often needs them as attention-getters with kids. Rely on your photographic skills to convey your vision and skill.
