Mumbai, the veritable hub of Bollywood, is experiencing a gradual erasure of its cinematic legacy amidst the overpowering sprawl of corporate and political advertising. The dearth of visual tributes to the iconic film culture has left the city longing for the spirited charm it once exuded. In response to this cultural shift, the Bollywood Art Project (BAP) has emerged with a mission to resurrect the vibrant essence of Bollywood, fostering accessibility to its enchanting world right on the streets.
Established in 2012 by the fervent Bollywood aficionado and artist Ranjit Dahiya, the BAP is a creative venture aimed at celebrating the rich heritage of Indian cinema, particularly the illustrious journey of Bollywood over the past century. With its genesis coinciding with the momentous centenary of the Indian film industry, this urban art initiative has remarkably transformed Mumbai's concrete landscapes into living memorials paying homage to Bollywood's most revered legends.
A stroll through the bustling streets of Mumbai now unveils a captivating tapestry of larger-than-life murals immortalizing the unforgettable personas of Hindi cinema. From the charismatic Amitabh Bachchan captured in a poignant scene from Sarkar Raj to the graceful dance of Asha Parekh in Aasra along with Amrish Puri, Nawazuddin Siddiqi, Dev Anand, Dilip Kumar, Saira Banu, Madhubala, Rajesh Khanna and Irfan Khan among others, the BAP the murals proudly exhibit the pantheon of Bollywood's most cherished luminaries.
Not confined to the silver screen, the project further extends its homage to the legendary figures of Indian cricket, with icons like Sachin Tendulkar finding their place in this artistic journey. By enlivening the city with these vibrant visual narratives, the BAP not only rekindles nostalgia but also reasserts the enduring influence of Bollywood on the collective cultural consciousness. As the project continues to flourish, it remains dedicated to reinvigorating Mumbai's streets with the timeless allure of its cinematic heritage, inviting all to revel in the magic of Bollywood's golden era.
Follow the Bollywood Art Project here.
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