Preserving Street Art: India’s Unwritten History on Walls with respect to Tiruvannamalai District

Street art in India represents a unique intersection of creativity, social commentary, and historical documentation. This study analyses the multifaceted role of street art in the Tiruvannamalai District, encompassing its urban, semi-urban, and rural areas. Far from being acts of vandalism, it serves as a collective voice reflecting the nation’s cultural transitions and social consciousness. This study explores street art as a medium of education, expression, and historical preservation. Using a non-doctrinal qualitative methodology and a questionnaire-based survey of 61 respondents, the research examines public perceptions of legality, heritage, and freedom of expression. Findings reveal that murals and graffiti act as social educators, fostering civic awareness and recording community experiences. Respondents widely view street art as a cultural and historical asset, comparable to temple murals and stone inscriptions. Recommendations include establishing national digital archives, creating heritage walls, and encouraging community participation. By recognizing street art as a form of living history, the research positions it as a bridge between India’s traditional heritage and the evolving imagination of its youth. Street art thus stands as both a mirror and a memory of society, preserving the spirit of its time.