From medical representative to street artist: Kolkata man honours football icons ahead of World Cup

The faces of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar and Sunil Chhetri now adorn a neighbourhood street, turning ordinary walls into a vibrant football-themed canvas.

The artwork is the creation of 28-year-old Harshit Bandyopadhyay, who spent 35 days painting the portraits using his own savings and countless hours of work.

By profession, Bandyopadhyay is a medical representative, spending his days travelling with a bag of medicines slung over his shoulder. Away from work, however, he is an artist and a passionate football fan whose love for the game inspired the ambitious project.

Photo: Avishek Mitra/IBNS

Without sponsorship or financial assistance, he completed the murals entirely with personal funds.

A lifelong supporter of Brazil and Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Bandyopadhyay said he chose the players because of their impact on the sport and the memories they have created for football fans around the world.

He believes the upcoming World Cup could be the final appearance on football's biggest stage for Messi, Ronaldo and Neymar, making the project a personal tribute to three players who defined an era.

At the same time, he wanted to ensure that Indian football was represented alongside the global stars. Alongside the celebrated trio stands Sunil Chhetri, India's football talisman and one of the country's most admired sporting figures.

"As an Indian, I wanted to include Sunil Chhetri alongside the global icons," Bandyopadhyay said.

The murals have attracted attention from local residents and passers-by, many of whom have praised the initiative for bringing colour and football spirit to the neighbourhood ahead of the tournament.

Photo: Avishek Mitra/IBNS

The project also reflects football's enduring popularity in West Bengal, where admiration for international stars often runs as deep as support for local clubs.