Bengaluru street art tackles women’s safety, drug abuse, and cybercrime

Graffiti for Hope, an initiative spearheaded by Rotary International, has brought social issues to the forefront. A stretch of wall adjacent to the Adugodi Police Station in Bengaluru is no longer a blank canvas — it is now alive with the murals of Kolkata-based artist Sayam Porey. This unique project is a collaborative effort between Rotary and the Bengaluru Police. Project coordinator, Nivedita Dutta, envisioned an enduring, impactful method of raising awareness about women’s safety, drug abuse, and cybercrime — three of the most pressing issues identified by the Bengaluru Police. “Street art sticks in people’s minds long after an event or campaign has faded away,” she explains, “We chose this art form specifically to reach Bangalore’s large youth population.” Sayam’s murals are intentionally jarring. “I want people to feel something, even if it’s uncomfortable,” he says. His depiction of a woman’s tear-streaked face is a visceral reminder of domestic violence. A hunched figure surrounded by a syringe illustrates the devastating grip of addiction. He adds, “It’s the same concept behind those graphic anti-smoking ads. If words on a poster don’t work, maybe confronting the raw pain through art will.” Sayam’s symbolism weaves through the murals. A hooded figure with...