Mumbai’s Local Train Graffiti Culture

Mumbai’s local trains are more than a means of transport—they’re a moving canvas. Over the years, graffiti has crept onto the carriages and stations, turning the city’s lifeline into a vibrant stream of visual stories.

What started as a subversive act has gradually gained recognition as street art. These graffiti pieces range from quick tags to elaborate murals, featuring bold typography, social messages, pop culture icons, and abstract designs. Artists, often working at night or in brief windows of opportunity, leave behind marks that pulse with Mumbai’s energy.

Train graffiti in Mumbai is unique because it moves. Unlike a wall mural fixed in one place, these artworks travel across suburbs and time zones. They bring art to people who might never visit a gallery—students, commuters, vendors, workers—all get a fleeting glance at creativity on wheels.

The culture is driven by both anonymity and identity. Artists use pseudonyms but also have distinct styles. Their work is a mix of personal expression, rebellion, and a desire to beautify the overlooked.

Despite concerns about legality, the scene has grown more accepted. Some initiatives even invite graffiti artists to decorate trains with permission. As the city races on rails, its train art reminds us that creativity never stands still.