Neelim Mahanta is a prominent street artist and activist from Assam, renowned for transforming public spaces into vibrant canvases that reflect cultural identity, social issues, and environmental concerns. Born in Lakhimpur, Assam, Mahanta pursued architecture at the Guwahati College of Architecture and later studied at the Delhi College of Art.
Mahanta's artworks often delve into themes of environmental conservation, cultural heritage, and political activism. Notably, he painted murals protesting large dam projects in Arunachal Pradesh, which led to his arrest in 2022 for allegedly defacing a government mural. Despite the controversy, Mahanta views his art as a form of peaceful protest and a means to spark dialogue on pressing issues. Through his "Living Art" initiative, Mahanta continues to inspire a new generation of artists and activists, demonstrating how public art can serve as a powerful tool for social change and environmental advocacy.