Remembering Hanif Kureshi: The Visionary Who Painted India's Streets

Hanif Kureshi, the creative force behind India's first public art district in Delhi's Lodhi Colony, passed away at age 41 due to cancer. Known for democratizing art, he founded the St+art Foundation in 2013, bringing vibrant street art to Indian cities. His legacy continues to inspire.

Cars slow down, pedestrians pause and swivel to admire the murals adorning schools, hospitals, and homes in Delhi's Lodhi Colony, now celebrated as the Lodhi Art District.

On Sunday, Hanif Kureshi, the artistic visionary behind India's inaugural public art district, passed away from cancer in Goa at the age of 41. Widely recognized for 'making art democratic,' Kureshi co-founded the St+art Foundation in 2013 alongside Arjun Bahl, Akshat Nauriyal, Giulia Ambrogi, and Thanish Thomas. Their joint mission focused on infusing Indian streets with vibrant art, starting with Lodhi Colony in 2015.

Bahl recalled Kureshi's fervent wish to democratize art, ensuring it was accessible to all. Despite battling cancer for over a year, Kureshi's spirit remained indomitable, always hopeful and positive. His death has evoked an outpouring of grief and tributes from artists and admirers who revere him as the 'pioneer of graffiti' in India. Kureshi's works, which blend typography and street culture, will continue to brighten urban landscapes, just as he envisioned.

(With inputs from agencies.)