In a world often divided by barriers, India’s Wall of Kindness initiative is building something radically different — public spaces that champion compassion, empathy, and community spirit. Known locally as ‘Neki Ki Deewar’, this grassroots movement has taken root across the country, proving that kindness needs no occasion or fanfare.

Where generosity finds a home

The idea behind the Wall of Kindness is beautifully simple: anyone can hang or place items they no longer need — clothes, shoes, toys, books, even food — on a designated wall in a public space. Anyone in need can walk up and take what’s useful to them. No questions asked, no judgment passed. A painted message often accompanies these walls: “Leave what you don’t need. Take what you do.”

This model first originated in Mashhad, Iran, in 2015, when an anonymous citizen painted the now-iconic message on a wall and installed hooks for people to hang warm clothes during winter. The idea quickly went viral and found resonance globally.