Planning my birthday week has always been a cherished tradition, filled with anticipation and joy. For the past few years, one destination has consistently graced my list: Gallery XXL. From the outside, it might look like any other gallery, but stepping inside those doors reveals a world where life’s contrasts come alive. This magical experience was brought to life by Hanif Kureshi, the co-founder of the gallery and a visionary artist born in Gujarat, whose spirit resonated through vibrant colours and powerful messages.
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Sadly, Kureshi passed away on September 22 at the mere age of 41, after a brave and relentless battle with cancer, leaving an aching void in the hearts of many. Yet, his colorful legacy continues to spark joy in the streets of India, reminding us of the beauty in the alphabets he celebrated and the murals that have transformed India’s urban landscapes.
While my knowledge of his remarkable career may not match that of longtime fans, his artistry has always resonated deeply with me. He openly contributed to democratising art by breaking down the barriers of traditional galleries, diminishing their pretentiousness and high price tags. Kureshi provided street artists with a safe space to confidently embrace their identities, as he documented their unique styles and shared a rich tapestry of life with the world. He turned the normative into larger-than-life pieces, immortalising the every day and finding vibrancy in the mundane.
All this made Kureshi more than an artist who simply creates or presents art; he was a bridge connecting art to the everyday lives of those around him. He had an extraordinary gift for elevating the mundane—film posters, truck art—capturing the very essence of India’s colourful and diverse spirit. His portfolio is painted with golden strokes of beautiful projects. One of the most notable is the St+art India initiative, which he co-founded in 2013, where he breathed new life into neglected spaces, turning them into vibrant galleries that pulsed with energy.
His monumental murals can be found in places like Mumbai’s Sassoon Docks and Delhi’s Lodhi Colony, each a testament to his belief that art should burst from the confines of quiet galleries, spilling onto the cracked walls of our streets, just as decorated lorries and traditional kolam have always adorned our culture. The Lodhi Art District, India’s first open-air art district, stands as a poignant reminder of Kureshi’s vision. His work created a sanctuary for collaboration among artists, designers, and musicians, fostering communities where creativity could flourish and connections could deepen.
Kureshi was a provocateur who used his underground graffiti movement to jolt people from their urban complacency with striking messages like “Stop Collecting” and “Stop Critiquing.” Thanks to him, neglected walls in Indian cities transformed into vibrant canvases where everyday life, culture, and social commentary converged. Through bold murals and hand-painted signboards, he ensured that art resonated with everyone who passed by. When showcased globally, his pieces wove together elements of South Asian heritage, prompting us to rethink familiar narratives and sparking cross-border conversations that nurtured a sense of shared humanity.
As we reflect on Kureshi’s impact, we celebrate not only his exceptional artistic contributions but also the warmth and connections he fostered through his work. His legacy serves as a vibrant reminder that art is all around us, enriching our lives with colour and meaning. Kureshi’s journey highlights the power of community and culture, creating spaces where everyone feels valued and connected offering moments of reflection, inspiration, and comfort amidst the chaos of life.
