Residents and a neighborhood football club in Kolkata have transformed Fakir Chakraborty Lane into a "FIFA Gully" to celebrate the 2026 World Cup [1].
The project highlights the deep-rooted football culture of Kolkata, often called India's football capital, as the city prepares for the tournament's knockout stages [2].
Located in the Beniatola and Shyambazar areas of West Bengal, the initiative turned the street into a public attraction [1]. The transformation covers a stretch of approximately 100 meters [3]. The lane now features a variety of colorful decorations, including flags, and murals that line the walls [1].
Local artists and residents created giant hand-painted cut-outs of football legends, including Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo [3]. These installations serve as a visual tribute to the sport and the global stars who define the modern game [2].
The effort was a collaborative project between the local community and a neighborhood football club [1]. By converting a residential lane into a themed gallery, the organizers said they intended to showcase the city's long-standing passion for the sport to both locals and visitors [2].
This grassroots celebration reflects a broader trend of urban fan expression in India, where football passion often manifests in neighborhood-led art and community gatherings [2]. The "FIFA Gully" remains open to the public as the 2026 tournament progresses [1].
“Kolkata residents and a local football club turned Fakir Chakraborty Lane into a colourful 'FIFA Gully'.”
The creation of the 'FIFA Gully' underscores the cultural significance of football in West Bengal, where the sport often rivals cricket in popularity. By utilizing public space for grassroots art, the community is leveraging the global visibility of the 2026 World Cup to assert Kolkata's identity as a regional hub for soccer passion, bridging the gap between local neighborhood pride and international sporting events.
