Indian Trucks and Taxis Get Serious Makeovers

Eileen Kinsella August 5, 2015 ShareShare This Article

Image: Courtesy of Archana Menon via Flickr

CNN.com has an entertaining feature on the psychedelic world of Indian truck art and its social significance.

Truckers in India—some of whom spend up to ten months a year on the road— opt for elaborate paintings and stickers to give some color to an otherwise drab vehicle and also to promote their brands or goods.

According to the story: “Here, a truck isn’t just a way to get around. It’s a moving work of art reflecting the character of its driver—and a brilliant beacon for new customers.”

Shantanu Suman, a graphic designer and filmmaker behind the 2013 documentary film “Horn Please,” tells CNN: “A better looking truck attracts more business…It’s like a moving billboard.”

Pavithra Dikshit’s taxi art.
Photo: Taxi Fabric.

In addition to trucks, Mumbai has a stellar tradition of decorating taxis. Recently, Taxi Fabric commissioned designers to create eye-catching interiors. Their Kickstarter project has already passed its goal to outfit additional cabs.

Designer Pavithra Dikshit says on Taxi Fabric’s Tumblr, “The passenger facing cover celebrates my childhood of always having Jasmine (mogra) growing at home.”

Truck and taxi art is rich with symbolism, including images of gods and goddesses, Bollywood celebrities, political logos, good luck omens, and adornments such as bangles or other jewelry. See images of Taxi Fabri c‘s project below.