Yogesh Saini, an artist and the founder of Delhi Street Art (DSA), breathed life into the walls of India’s capital city with his vibrant imagination and artistic flair. Born into a world of engineering and business, Saini pursued higher education, earning degrees in engineering and MBA. However, his true passion lay in the realm of art, and after living in the United States for some time, he returned to Delhi in 2013 to embark on a journey that would leave an indelible mark on the cityscape.
The Birth of Delhi Street Art
In 2013, Saini established Delhi Street Art, a community-driven initiative aimed at transforming the mundane walls of Delhi into vibrant canvases. With a dedicated team of volunteers, Saini led numerous projects over the years, infusing colour and creativity into the city’s urban landscape.
A Legacy of Transformation
Over the last decade, DSA played a pivotal role in revamping the aesthetic appeal of Delhi’s streets. Collaborating with various stakeholders, including embassies and government agencies, Saini and his team brought art to unexpected places, turning schools, prisons, and public spaces into vibrant showcases of creativity.
International Collaborations and Recognition
DSA’s impact extended beyond Delhi’s borders, garnering attention from international audiences. Collaborations with embassies, including the Australian High Commission, the Netherlands Embassy, the German Embassy, the Danish Embassy, and the European Union delegation, showcased the universal language of art and diplomacy.
A Visionary Leader and Mentor
Saini’s influence transcended the realm of street art. As a mentor to aspiring artists, he nurtured talent and fostered creativity within the community. His dedication to his craft earned him recognition on a national scale, with his work even being acknowledged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his monthly talk show, Mann Ki Baat, in 2019.
A Sudden Farewell
On February 19, 2024, the art community mourned the loss of Yogesh Saini, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 64. His son, Surya Saini, shared that his father suffered a cardiac arrest during a routine check-up at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital in Patel Nagar. The news came as a shock to many who had been touched by Saini’s creativity and passion for art.
Just read the tragic news of the unexpected passing away of Yogesh Saini, incredibly talented Delhi artist & founder of @delhistreetart. He was also a close friend. Worked with many Embassies in Delhi…May his soul rest in peace. His legacy will inspire countless others pic.twitter.com/52AgwIMefn
— Walter J. Lindner (@WalterJLindner) February 21, 2024
Honouring a Creative Legacy
As Delhi Street Art continues to thrive, Yogesh Saini’s legacy lives on in the colourful murals that adorn the city’s walls. His dedication to transforming urban spaces and fostering artistic expression has left an indelible mark on Delhi’s cultural landscape. As the city mourns the loss of a visionary artist, his spirit lives on through the vibrant hues that now define its streets.
Feature Image: Yogesh Saini | Express Photo By Amit Mehra
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