Street art has a rich and complex history full of controversy. Graffiti can be rightfully acknowledged as the forerunner of street art and murals. Originally, graffiti emerged as a rebellious form of guerilla street art during the 1960s and '70s. In its early days, graffiti served as a bold challenge to the prevailing social and moral norms, often expressing frustration towards the government or society as a whole.

Over time, graffiti and street art have undergone a significant evolution. Nowadays, street art is created in public spaces to convey a message. Within the urban landscape, contemporary street artists utilize diverse art forms to articulate their thoughts and ideas.

Previously, Indian cities and towns lacked a vibrant wall art scene. However, this scenario is gradually changing. India is emerging as a country where breathtaking wall art can be admired. The recent transformation of ordinary walls into extraordinary canvases is truly remarkable. Moreover, this shift has provided artists with a platform to showcase their boundless creativity and imagination.

So, pick up your spray can and hop aboard as we travel across the country to explore the colourful palette of India’s graffiti scene.

New Delhi

Metropolitan cities in India have shown tremendous support for street art in recent times, and this is particularly true for the nation's capital, New Delhi. The city is renowned for its vibrant and colourful walls, making it a must-visit destination for graffiti enthusiasts.

Shahpur Jat

Shahpur Jat, aside from being a haven for shopaholics, is a landscape of vibrant colours! Almost every wall you come across is adorned with captivating murals. And if not murals, they are painted in the most radiant shades of blue, pink, and even yellow.

The artwork predominantly features depictions of nature or mythical figures, which is truly awe-inspiring! We highly recommend bringing your cameras and capturing the sheer beauty of this enchanting neighbourhood, with its charming narrow alleys and breathtaking graffiti.

Lodhi Art District

The Lodhi Art District played a pioneering role in shaping the street art scene of the city. Thanks to the efforts of St+Art, which is a not-for-profit organization that promotes street art, the once-forgettable walls have been transformed into truly unforgettable masterpieces.

(Image Credit: Google Arts & Culture)

Stretching between Khanna Market and Mehar Chand Market, this area boasts an impressive collection of 26 walls that burst forth with a vibrant array of colours, thoughts, and emotions.

These walls are adorned with captivating murals that depict extraordinary expressions. As a result, our shopping excursions to Mehar Chand Market have become even more picture-perfect, thanks to these stunning artworks. Don't miss the opportunity to visit soon!

Getting Here

• 12953 | AK TEJAS RAJ EX - Mumbai (MMCT) To Delhi (NZM)
• 12329 | SAMPARK K EXP - Kolkata (SDAH)n To Delhi (ANVT)
• 12213 | YPR DEE DURONTO - Bangalore (YPR) To Delhi (DEE) 

Bangalore, Karnataka

The art scene in Bangalore has witnessed a remarkable surge in recent times, making it a captivating destination for art enthusiasts. The city's transformation has bestowed upon it a new and awe-inspiring identity. Exploring Bangalore will allow you to immerse yourself in its vibrant and rapidly evolving art culture, a truly unparalleled experience.

Malleshwaram

This particular district showcases an impressive collection of creative street art, all thanks to the Urban Avant-Garde project that took place in 2012 in collaboration with the Malleswaram Accessibility Project, Jaaga, and the Goethe Institut.

(Image Credit: Bangalore Mirror)

The artworks found here skillfully capture the unique characteristics and idiosyncrasies of the city and its inhabitants. Among them, there are a few thought-provoking pieces that truly make you pause and reflect (we have a personal fondness for the one that carries the message 'Ignorance is Blindness of the Soul').

You can easily spot some of the most popular artworks in prominent areas such as the Railway Station, 6th Cross, and 7th Cross.

Koramangala

Those who have walked along the 1st A Cross Road near Jyoti Nivas College are well aware of the captivating wall illustrations that are simply unmissable. Adorned with vibrant colours and infused with clever thoughts, these artworks demand a moment of appreciation before you proceed along the lively lane.

Trains to Bangalore

• 12630 | YPR S KRNTI EXP - Delhi (NDLS) To Bangalore (YPR)
• 11005 | PUDUCHERRY EXP - Mumbai (DR) To Bangalore (YPR)
• 22817 | HWH MYS EXP - Howrah (HWH) To Bangalore (SBC)

Mumbai, Maharashtra

This city in India is an ideal destination to witness some of the finest graffiti walls in the country. The walls of Bandra are adorned with vibrant murals, showcasing the most striking and vivid artworks. While these emblazoned walls are prominently found in Bandra, you can also come across scattered pockets of such artistic brilliance throughout Mumbai.

Lion Gate

The bustling and chaotic life of Mumbai has inspired countless painters, musicians, and filmmakers throughout the years. Street artists have also found their creative voice in the city. One remarkable artwork located at The Lion Gate Wall offers a unique perspective on Mumbai's rich maritime trade history from the 19th century.

(Image Credit: Youthincmag.com)

Although the creator of this masterpiece remains unknown, it serves as a beautiful tribute to the city. Interestingly, it is believed that this artwork was commissioned to cover the wall entirely, as it had been marred by people spitting on it.

Khar

As many are no doubt aware, Bollywood is comprised not only of its heroes but also its villains. On this 20x20 feet wall, the artist captured one of Bollywood's most memorable antagonists, Amrish Puri, portraying the iconic character of Mogambo from the film "Mr India."

The mural depicts Amrish Puri in the midst of delivering one of his legendary dialogues, "Mogambo khush hua." It serves as a tribute to one of Bollywood's most cherished and missed villains.

Trains to Mumbai

• 22210 | MMCT DURONTO - Delhi (NDLS) Mumbai (MMCT)
• 20822 | PUNE HUMSAFAR - Kolkata (SRC) To Mumbai (PNVL)
• 20919 | MAS EKNR EXPRESS - Chennai (MAS To Kalyan (KYN)

Kolkata, West Bengal

This Indian city, renowned for its colonial and vintage ambience, has also witnessed a remarkable surge in pop street art culture. The emergence of vibrant street art has become a noteworthy phenomenon in this city. Consequently, it has become a fantastic destination to explore and appreciate graffiti walls as well.

Park Street

When discussing Kolkata, one cannot overlook the significance of Park Street. As you stroll along from the Trincas side, take a moment to appreciate the captivating graffiti artwork displayed outside The Park Hotel.

This vibrant creation, made using spray paints, adorns the Park Hotel stretch and offers an alternate depiction of Kolkata's cityscape. It's a wonderful opportunity to capture a unique picture of the city.

Lake Gardens

You will find a remarkable warehouse located nearby the Lake Gardens flyover. This warehouse is truly a sight to behold, as it is adorned with an impressive array of diverse wall art and captivating graffiti. You may be curious about the purpose behind this creative display.

(Image Credit: Whats Hot)

The warehouse serves as an underground haven for hip-hop enthusiasts. Here, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of rap cyphers taking place, accompanied by the exhilarating sights of individuals honing their skills on skateboards and bicycles. It's a dynamic hub where talented individuals showcase their rap prowess while others practice awe-inspiring stunts, all within the welcoming embrace of this artistic warehouse.

Trains to Kolkata

• 12380 | JALIWALA B EXP - Delhi (DLI) To Kolkata (SDAH)
• 20821 | PUNE SRC HUMSAFR - Mumbai (PNVL) To Kolkata (SRC)
• 12326 | KOAA SF EXPRESS - Lucknow (LKO) To Kolkata (KOAA)

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Varanasi is a city that embraces street art in its many spaces. One can witness the vibrant expression of art around the Ghats, which have become an ideal canvas for Varanasi Street artists. Dull walls, water tanks, and various other uninspiring surfaces have undergone a magnificent transformation, adorned with a burst of captivating colours.

The street art in Varanasi, particularly around the Ghats, often reflects religious themes. It is common to find striking depictions of Gods and divine figures, adding a spiritual touch to the artistic landscape of the city.

Shivala Ghat

One of the striking aspects of street art at Shivala Ghat is the fusion of traditional Indian motifs with modern interpretations. Artists skillfully incorporate elements from Indian mythology, such as gods and goddesses, deities, and spiritual symbols, into their artworks. These vibrant murals breathe life into the streets, capturing the essence of Varanasi's cultural heritage.

(Image Credit: David 'MEGGS' Hooke)

Tulsi Ghat

The street art at Tulsi Ghat often pays homage to the rich mythological stories of ancient India. Artists skillfully capture scenes from the epics, such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata, using vibrant colours and intricate details. These murals serve as visual storytellers, inviting passersby to immerse themselves in the captivating narratives of the past.

Trains to Varanasi

• 22436 | VANDE BHARAT EX - Delhi (NDLS) To Varanasi (BSB)
• 18610 | LTT RANCHI EXP - Mumbai (LTT) To Varanasi (BSB)
• 12325 | KOAA NLDM EXP - Kolkata (KOAA) To Varanasi (BSB)

Conclusion

People often miss out on the most interesting works of art since these are usually housed in galleries and museums. Street art allows the common man access to some of the best and most beautiful works of art.

Moreover, street art also has the unique ability to capture the attention and imagination of passersby in ways that traditional art forms sometimes struggle to achieve. The unexpected encounter with a thought-provoking mural or a skillfully crafted stencil can elicit a range of emotions, leaving a lasting impression on the viewer.