Temple Worshipper in Udaipur
Temple Worshipper in Udaipur

As I was exiting a temple in India, I noticed this woman on the steps and asked if I could photograph her. She smiled for me, and after clicking the photo I handed her a small rupee note. Her joy at receiving the “backsheesh” was infectious and I then snapped this additional photo.

Young Sikhs, Amritsar, India
Young Sikhs, Amritsar, India

I happened upon a group of young school boys who all happened to be Sikhs. I took many photos with them, but this was one of my favorites. They were just delightful.

Sadhus marching towards the Sanga for the Royal Bath, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhus marching towards the Sanga for the Royal Bath, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

This group of Sadhu’s had enormous dreadlocks of braided hair that they spun around and waved in the air as they marched down to take their holy bath in the Ganges at the Kumbh Mela on the Royal Bath day, the busiest day of the entire Kumbh Mela. That day there were 50 million pilgrims attending.

Small boy in the Tent City, Prayagra, India
Small boy in the Tent City, Prayagra, India

During the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, a giant Tent City was formed that housed all of the various Sadhus and facilities. There was a very large area that was provided for families and devotees that wanted to camp over the 55 day festival. This little guy was walking along the dusty road inside the camp one late afternoon. As I was headed back to my campsite out of the Tent City, i stopped and kneeled down in front of him and asked if I could take his photo. He had such large, sweet eyes. In his hand he was carrying some sort of snack wrapped in newspaper. His bare feet had turned as white as the sand he was walking on. After i shot his photo, he went skipping down the road singing some sort of tune and waving his hands.

Local school near Bodh Gaya, India
Local school near Bodh Gaya, India

One early morning I ventured down a dirt road away from Bodh Gaya proper to explore. I happened upon this small school. The children had just eaten and were in the process of brushing their teeth. When they saw me with my camera they all scampered over to the window and peered out.

Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

This Sadhu was giving blessings and lighting fires for devotees and anyone who wanted to visit. You were asked to remove your shoes and kneel in front of him if you wanted a blessing. The entire ground was covered in rich blankets and rugs, and smoke was billowing up in all directions. His body was completely covered in ash, and he was naked except for a cloth over his lap.

Plastic Collector near Bodh Gaya, India
Plastic Collector near Bodh Gaya, India

One afternoon on a dirt road outside of Bodh Gaya I happened upon this man walking down in the ditches along the road. It appeared that he was picking up plastic trash. As he was walking away I watched him lumber along, with a full sack of recyclable plastic on his back. I reached into my pocket and found a 100 rupee note. I turned and walked purposefully toward him, and as I approached he turned around. I reached out and handed him the note. He dropped his cloth sack and started sobbing and raising the rupee note to the sky. At that moment I felt very close to him, so i touched the top of his head and bowed, smiling. As I turned to walk away he was still sobbing. It was a moment that I will hold with me for the rest of my life.

Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, 2019
Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, 2019

Baba at the Juna Akhara Camp, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India. Before the Royal Bath for the Naga initiates, I spent the night in the tent of this Baba. He smoked hashish the entire night and told stories.

Construction worker, Punjab, India
Construction worker, Punjab, India

I was traveling to Varanasi from Amritsar in Punjab. We stopped for a chai in a very small village, and i shot some photos of the Chai wallah and some of the men sitting around the open air shop. As we were getting back in the car, I noticed this man across the street working construction. I was struck by his appearance, as all the other men were just in ragged t-shirts and torn trousers this guy was wearing such an elegant headscarf and brilliant yellow. I was hesitant to approach him, as everyone stopped working and looked at me. I asked if I could photograph him and he stood tall and gave me this amazing look. If you look close, you can see the dirt and sand on his lower left jaw.

Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj

As I was boarding a boat to go out the the Sangam to take bathe, I spotted this young man deep in prayer as he blessed himself with the holy waters of the Ganga.

Mauni Amavasya, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Mauni Amavasya, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

On this most auspicious day of the Kumbh Mela, known as Mauni Amavasya, flocks of residents come to the shores of Mother Ganga to bathe in her waters to purify their past sins. This is the busiest day for bathing at the Kumbh, because it is believed that the planetary positions are most favorable for bathing in the holy river. This was part of the early morning procession of initiates and Sadhus down to the shore.

Agra, India
Agra, India

I met this young man and his uncle one day outside the Taj Mahal. They told me that if I showed up early the next morning, before the gate was opened, they would slip me in a side gate for a quick photo opportunity before any other people were inside. I did as I was told, and the following morning i was quickly shown all the best spots to photograph the Taj Mahal in the glory of the sunrise. It was a moment that I have never forgotten, and one I am truly grateful for.

Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

This Sadhu in the Juna Akhara tent section of the tent city, Kumbh Mela was one of the most beautiful men I have ever encountered.

Young Buddhist Monk, Bodh Gaya, India
Young Buddhist Monk, Bodh Gaya, India

After visiting a giant Buddhist statue, my buddy and I walked across the field to the entrance of a Buddhist Monastery. We went through the gate and I noticed a group of young monks over in a yard. I started towards them and immediately an older man came running towards us yelling and waving his arms. My buddy started speaking to him rapidly in Hindi, but i could make out “sorry uncle….sorry uncle.” He managed to calm him down, and even got his blessing to let us go and talk to the monks. This was one of the monks who allowed me to photograph him.

Devotee at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Devotee at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

I met this gentleman crossing the bridge from the Tent City at the Kumbh Mela to get to the water for the ritual bathing. I saw him ahead of me, and as I walked by I glanced over at him and broke into a big smile. I said “Oh wow. I am going to tell everyone back home that I met Ghandi!” He smiled and laughed and I asked if I could get a photo.

Street Vendor
Street Vendor

I met this girl during a brief stop of our tour bus in Orchha. She was selling pieces of jewelry that she had made. I was taken with her eyes and asked her if I could photograph her. Although she was very shy, she stood still and allowed me this shot. Her features were so delicate and such a contrast to the rural, rugged terrain that was all around us.

Kerala, India
Kerala, India

This young man was standing by the shore line as our tour bus crossed a bridge into a small village in Kerala. He briefly turned around and saw my camera and gave me this amazing shot. It was a mixture of curiosity and kindness, and was a great welcome.

Chai customer, Prayagraj, India
Chai customer, Prayagraj, India

One early evening I was walking back to my campsite from the tent city at the Kumbh Mela and I stopped for a chai. I had walked past this little stand on my way down to the Kumbh, and when they waved me inside I said I would stop on my way back. I ordered a chai and sat down at the table across from this man. I told him I was photographing faces of India. I asked if I could take his photo. He straightened up and leaned against the wall, with sort of a stern look on his face. I said “Smile!” and this is what he gave me!

Kerala, India
Kerala, India

I spotted this young man on a walking tour through a small village in Kerala, India. I was intrigued by his smart outfit amidst all the disarray that was all around us. His eyes and face shown with such kindness my heart melted.

Devotee at the Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya, India
Devotee at the Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya, India

After I took a tour inside the Mahabodhi Temple i noticed this man sitting on the wall. He had a small drum that he was shaking back and forth, closing his eyes in prayerful moments. I walked over close to him and stood silently, watching him. He motioned for me to come and join him. I sat down next to him and he handed me the small drum, picked up another and showed me how to shake it. After we played our drums I stood to go and asked him if I could take a photo. He had the most amazing eyes. We never spoke a word.

Varanasi, India
Varanasi, India

I happened to walk by this mother and her small child on the way down to one of the ghats where the nightly Ganga Aarti takes place. It is a customary way of putting the river Mother Ganga to sleep. Although the mother was very shy, her small child was delighted by the camera. The contrast in their faces was priceless.

Dehli, India
Dehli, India

This woman is typical of the many vendors that line up along the roadsides to sell vegetables to the local population as well as visitors. These farmers serve as an important resource for fresh produce and provide the various food stalls with ingredients for the day.

Jama Masjid, Dehli, India
Jama Masjid, Dehli, India

These school children were on a tour of the Jama Masjid mosque in Dehil one late morning. As many children are in India, they were very intrigued by the camera and wanted many “selfies” and photographs taken of them. I loved the splash of red in their uniforms and their infectious spirits and smiles.

Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai
Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai

This small boy was skipping rocks along the shoreline at the Chowpatty Beach in Mumbai. I got this shot off just as he was skipping one of his rocks. He got many skips from his rocks, and was quite pleased with his efforts, as I was with this photograph.

Dehli, India
Dehli, India

This young man was on the back of a motorcycle riding along a rural road just outside of Dehli, India. I loved the contrast of his jet black hair and the white of his headband.

Humayun's Tomb, Dehli, India
Humayun's Tomb, Dehli, India

This gentleman was sweeping the grounds around Humayun’s Tomb in Dehli. He stopped for a brief moment to take a rest, and I was able to photograph him against the wall. I was intrigued by how his skin and sweater matched so closely to the red sandstone.

School boy in Kerala, India
School boy in Kerala, India

I was out walking along a local village road when I spotted this young man sitting outside a hut. I walked over to him and asked if I could take his photo. He shyly smiled.

Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Sadhus marching towards the Sanga for the Royal Bath, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhus marching towards the Sanga for the Royal Bath, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

At 4:30 am in the Tent City, all the initiates and the Sadhu’s began lining up to march toward the Sanga to bathe in the holy Ganga River. This group of men had very long dreadlocks, which they swung around high in the air as they marched. For as far back as the eyes could see, they continued coming: singing, skipping, running, jumping moving towards the water.

Dharavati, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Dharavati, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

I was on my way back from a city tour of Mumbai when i noticed an area that looked like a slum off to the side. I asked the driver if we could drive back into it for a bit, but he was hesitant telling me this was something that i didn’t really want to see. I encouraged him to keep going and as we entered the area the car was surrounded by smiling children jumping and waving and so excited for a strange visitor. I managed to get many memorable photos but this photo shows the sheer joy on their faces.

Varanasi, India
Varanasi, India

These gentleman were boatmen along the ghats on the Ganges river in Varanasi. I asked them if I could take their photo before boarding their boat and they were happy to oblige me.

Varanasi, India
Varanasi, India

This gentleman was bathing in the Ganga river in Varanasi after the evening Aarti ceremony. I took this in the dark with a flash, but I was happy with the detail I was able to get.

Village boy in Kerala, India
Village boy in Kerala, India

This little boy popped out of a house while i was walking along a village road in Kerala, India.

Family at Jama Masjid Mosque, Dehli, India
Family at Jama Masjid Mosque, Dehli, India

On my first visit to Jama Masjid Mosque in Dehli, I spotted this family sitting along an outer wall of the mosque. I approached them timidly not quite sure of the protocol for shooting photographs inside the Mosque. This was taken outside the inner room, in the outdoor courtyard. I very quickly took this shot, immediately hearing a yell from a man. As I turned around, I saw a man running towards me waving a big stick. I lowered my camera and did my best to apologize and quickly went inside. It is one of my favorite photos from all my trips to India.

Village Family, Rural India
Village Family, Rural India

This mother was leading her children across the road in a rural village outside of Dehli, India. Their colorful clothes were in sharp contrast to the bricks, mud and dusty road that was all around us.

Women working near Jairpur, India
Women working near Jairpur, India

These women were clearing an area that was under construction, hauling large containers of dirt that had been dug up on their heads.

Boys of Cochin, India
Boys of Cochin, India

This was a group of boys on break from school in a village in Cochin, India.

Class at local school near Bodh Gaya, India
Class at local school near Bodh Gaya, India

One morning in Bodh Gaya I ventured down a dirt path that led away from the city proper and came upon a school in session. I peeked in the window and saw the schoolchildren, who scampered over to the window and began shouting and smiling. I motioned that I wanted to come in, and they shook their heads from side to side (which in India can mean a variety of things.) I saw the doorway and walked inside. There I discovered the teacher, a young man who couldn’t have been more than 15 years old. I asked if I could take some photos, and he turned to the children and said something and they all ran outside and lined up for me. This is the photo that resulted from that moment.

Village men of Kerala, India
Village men of Kerala, India

While on an early morning walk through a remote village in Kerala, I happened upon these two gentlemen sitting by the roadside chatting.

Women near Jaipur, India
Women near Jaipur, India

These women were sweeping a dirt path along the Amber Palace, a 16th Century fort on a hilltop.

School girl in Kerala, India
School girl in Kerala, India

Many of the school children in India wear different uniforms when going to private schools. They are the fortunate children. Even when schools are free, many families cannot afford to buy materials or transport their children to school, or the children are needed at home to work to help support the families. Education is really the only hope to break the cycle of poverty for many of these children.

Father and son in Mumbai
Father and son in Mumbai

This father and son were enjoying a lunch break at a local food market in Mumbai when I approached them and chatted for a bit. The thought it quite amusing that I wanted to take their photo.

Boatmen in the backwaters of Kerala, India
Boatmen in the backwaters of Kerala, India

These men were harvesting in the backwaters of Kerala, India.

Kerala, India
Kerala, India

Village children in Kerala, India

Street vendor in Dehli, India
Street vendor in Dehli, India

This beautiful girl was helping her mother create straw baskets along a roadside outside of Dehli, India.

Spice Merchant in Dehli
Spice Merchant in Dehli
Basket weaver in Dehli
Basket weaver in Dehli

This elegant woman was sitting on the road side with her daughter weaving baskets for sale.

Kerala, India
Kerala, India

I was out walking early one morning on a dirt road in Kerala and I spotted this gentleman coming back from bathing in the river. He looked so crisp and fresh, with his hair still wet from the river. He graciously allowed me to take his photo, then continued walking down the road.

Sarnath, India
Sarnath, India

I noticed one pilgrim among the Buddhist worshippers praying against the large stupa. Sarnath is a place north-east of Varanasi near the confluence of the Ganges and Varuna rivers in Uttar Pradesh. This deer park in Sarnath is where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma. The large stupa is built on the spot where Buddha taught, and is in the shape of an inverted begging bowl.

Girl with child, Kerala, India
Girl with child, Kerala, India

Many families live together in one household in the villages of India. I believe this was her sister, but I am not certain. Often times you will see black circles around the eyes, particularly in small children. This is thought to ward off evil.

Children in the Tent City, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Children in the Tent City, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

These boys were with a family of worshippers staying in the Tent City at the Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

Village family in Kerala, India
Village family in Kerala, India
Train travel in Mumbai
Train travel in Mumbai

I caught this as the train was pulling into the station. Traveling by train is very popular in India and is one of the main transports for people. The trains are often packed to overflowing, and it is not uncommon to see people riding on top of the train cars and hanging on through the door openings.

Street Vendor, Dehli
Street Vendor, Dehli
Smoke Break in the Himalayans, Dharmkot, India
Smoke Break in the Himalayans, Dharmkot, India

On a crisp February day in the mountains of northern India near Dharmkot, I noticed a man crouching down lighting a cigarette. I was very quiet so as not to disturb him I quickly raised my camera and snapped this shot. He never noticed and we never spoke.

Village men of Kerala, India
Village men of Kerala, India
Friends on the street, Dehli
Friends on the street, Dehli

I was stuck by the warmth shown in this photo. In India it is very common to see men walking down the street holding hands, and women walking holding each others hands. It is strictly forbidden for the opposite sex to show physical affection in public, and is actually quite dangerous.

Man going to bathe in Kerala, India
Man going to bathe in Kerala, India
Juna Akhara Sadhu, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Juna Akhara Sadhu, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

This Sadhu was at the Juna Akhara camp inside the Tent City at the Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India. Many of these Sadhus live far up in the mountains in caves most of the year, and only come out in public for the Kumbh Mela.

Villagers in Bakraur, India
Villagers in Bakraur, India

This tiny village is just outside Bodh Gaya, India. It is a very remote and rustic village with a handful of residents. This small group came out to the roadside to visit and stood for a photo.

Chai Break, Dharmkot, India
Chai Break, Dharmkot, India

This gentleman shared a spot with me as I drank a chai tea in Dharmkot, India

Woman washing clothes in Barnet, India
Woman washing clothes in Barnet, India

Barnet is a tiny village high in the Himalayan Mountains composing of about 300 persons. I visited this village on a hike one morning from my hotel on Strawberry Point, near Naddi Village, India.

Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Village girl in Bodh Gaya, India
Village girl in Bodh Gaya, India

I was fortunate to meet a couple boys who took me into their village neighborhood in Bodh Gaya, India. I happened upon this school girl who graciously allowed me to photograph her.

Tour Guide, Punjab, India
Tour Guide, Punjab, India

This man was my tour guide for much of one of my trips in India. He drove me all the way from Dehli to Dharamshala, and drove back up to pick me up and return me to Dehli once I had explored northern India. He introduced me to Chana Masala, which to this day is still one of my very favorite foods. We had a lot of time together in the car, and he spoke very little English. But, I think he understood English much better than he could speak it. He took me on back roads and narrow village roads, which made for a much longer trip but for me much more interesting. One day he surprised me and took me to his house to meet his wife. We are still in contact and I hope to see him again on another trip to India.

My driver and his wife
My driver and his wife

On one of our road trips in northern India, my driver stopped at his home and introduced me to his wife. His two sons were in school at the time. After i had returned home, i had posted this photo on Instagram. He wrote me a note that said “You are my best friend.” It really touched me. Although he spoke very limited English, we understood each other quite well and had a great road trip together.

Shopkeeper, McLeod Ganj, India
Shopkeeper, McLeod Ganj, India

I met this gentleman while walking along Temple Road in McLeod Ganj, India. He had a wide variety of gemstones and beautiful pashmina fabrics. He created a beautiful set of mala beads for me made from all different colors of tiger eye stones. I would visit his shop whenever I was in the area, and would sit and drink chai with him. Not long after I left India, he married and now has a home in Kashmir, where he and his wife’s families are from.

Tent City, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Tent City, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

While out exploring the resident tent area inside the Tent City at the Kumbh Mela, I happened upon this gentleman gazing out of space next to where he was camping. I stopped and asked if I could shoot his photo.

Family in Chetdu, India
Family in Chetdu, India

On one of the first solo trips to India I met a young man in McLeod Ganj in northern India. He and his friend were offering their services as a guide. As I wasn’t in need of one, we exchanged information and I was on my way. He invited me to visit his family when I was next in India. True to his word, when I next visited I contacted him and stopped by his home on my way to Amritsar. His family was so gracious and kind and I was very moved by their generosity. This tender moment with this family inside their homes was one of the most precious moments I have yet to experience traveling.

Entrance to Tent City, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Entrance to Tent City, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

This year there were 150 million devotees who attended the 55 day Kumbh Mela, the largest religious gathering in the world. This is the entrance to the Tent City that leads to the Sangam and the holy waters of Mother Ganga.

Young Monk near Dharamshala
Young Monk near Dharamshala

I was fortunate to visit a monastery near Dharamshala in northern India. It was eerily silent when we arrived but within a half an hour young monks came sprinting out of every door into the large courtyard. It turns out we had arrived just in time to witness their dance practice and meditation session. I can only describe it as looking a bit like karate or tai kwon do, or perhaps more like Tai Chi. The joy of these young monks was infectious.

Sadhus, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhus, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Dehli, India
Dehli, India

This gentleman was working as a grounds keeper. Many of the sidewalks and surfaces are cleaned with just a few strands of straw swept back and forth. While this man was using a tool to cut the grass, I also saw many persons sitting on the ground pulling the grass by hand.

Red Fort, Dehli, India
Red Fort, Dehli, India

I loved the sentiment of this photo. Often times when visiting a monument or structure of historic significance there are just as many or more Indian citizens visiting on any given day. Indians are very proud of the rich history of their country.

School boys at Jama Masjid Mosque, Dehli, India
School boys at Jama Masjid Mosque, Dehli, India

This is a perfect example of the kind of reaction one gets when walking around India with a camera. Finding a willing subject is never a problem! As westerners, we all know the one word “namaste” when thinking of India. For Indians, the one word they all use is “selfie!” Many times they will want you to photograph them, then scamper away. It isn’t a selfie in the way we think of it. For many Indians, they only want you to photograph them. It is a wonderful situation for someone like myself who wishes to document India through its people.

A very common transport in India
A very common transport in India

Motorbikes and scooters of all shapes and sizes are a very common mode of transport in India. Often times there are 4 or 5 person families all crowded on to one bike. I was told that India has a rule that limits the number or riders, but this is not enforced as it is the only means of transport for many families. I noticed that many older women or women who still adhered to traditional dress chose to ride side saddle, but many younger women who wore more western wear straddled the bike as men do, or drove the bike themselves.

Sikh Family in Park, Dehli, India
Sikh Family in Park, Dehli, India

This is a good example of type of headdress worn by young sikhs in India. One of the practices among the Sikh faith is not cutting ones hair. Many of the younger men just wear a type of covering with a sort of bun on top. It looks like many of the photos one might see of the Buddha. When they grow older, they mature and move into the more formal Dastaar or turban. Turbans are also common among Sufi scholars and Shia Muslims. I am just assuming that this family are Sikh, but I may be wrong. Some Sikh women also choose to wear turbans.

Young school boys in Dehli
Young school boys in Dehli

This photo demonstrates the sheer abandonment and joy of what it is to be a child. These children were on a school trip and were clearly taking the opportunity to play amongst themselves.

Rickshaw drivers, Dehli, India
Rickshaw drivers, Dehli, India

Taking a rickshaw ride is a rite of passage for any tourist visiting India, but is also a very popular way to earn a living in India. While one may think it is cruel or burdensome to ride while another does all the work, it is often times is the only available means to make a living among the very crowded cities in India. Depending on the area one is visiting within the cities, many times a rickshaw or motorbike is the only way to maneuver some of the very narrow alleyways and streets, particularly in Old Dehli and in the very popular Chandi Chowk marketplace.

Garland maker at the ghats, Varanasi, India
Garland maker at the ghats, Varanasi, India

On the banks of the holy Ganges river, at the bottom of the ghats in Varanasi many people gather to take boats out to watch the morning and evening Aarti, or to give offerings of flowers to the Goddess Ganga, also affectionately referred to as Maa Ganga, goddess of the holiest river in India. One common offering is a small candle nestled in fresh flowers (often times a geranium) that sits on a round piece of paper that will then float on the water top when launched by a worshipper. Along the ghats sit women and men making these offerings and garlands consisting of fresh flowers.

Pilgrims at the Ganga River, Varanasi, India
Pilgrims at the Ganga River, Varanasi, India

For the evening aarti, many worshippers gather at the rivers edge to put the river to sleep each night. There is an elaborate performance every evening and early morning. This has been going on since the creation of the city of Varanasi, which is the oldest continually inhabited city in the world.

Neem seller, Varanasi, India
Neem seller, Varanasi, India

Neem sticks are traditionally used for oral care in India. They are an all-natural, fully plant-based, and totally biodegradable option for teeth cleaning. It is very easy to find these sticks, as there are always vendors anywhere you find people selling goods. These are actually available in the United States as well. I tried them, along with Neem powder mixed with toothpaste with good results.

Rickshaw driver on break, Varanasi, India
Rickshaw driver on break, Varanasi, India

Rickshaws are a very common way to get down to the various ghats along the Ganges river in Varanasi. All day, every day there are lines and lines of these small vehicles hauling visitors down the the river. This is a important source of income for many Indians. It appears to be self regulated, and the price of a ride will vary greatly depending on the mood of the driver at the time. A good rule of thumb is that the initially quoted will be three times the price that will be accepted. Usually locals are charged a much lower fare than a foreign visitor.

Buddhist monks circumambulating stupa at Sarnath, India
Buddhist monks circumambulating stupa at Sarnath, India

It is common practice when visiting a stupa to circumambulate around the outside of the stupa, at least three times in a clockwise direction. This is thought to be the most beneficial in gaining merit and blessings for oneself and ones loved ones. The large stupa at Sarnath was erected in the very spot that Buddha gave his first teaching on the Dharma. It is in the shape of an inverted begging bowl, and is one of the many holy sites visited by followers of Buddhism.

Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India

This photo is a great example of the variety of items one can find for sale among the streets of India. In the hanging basket are large cow patties that are used as fuel for fire and for making roofs and patching dwellings. The middle basket contains chillums (pipes) that are used to smoke tobacco, marijuana, or a combination of both. Often times these are used by Sadhus in temples or religious of Holy days. The small containers on the ground are used as chai (tea) containers. Most often the hot chai is served in these clay cups, then they are smashed and recycled to create more cups.

I see you in Kumarakom, Kerala, India
I see you in Kumarakom, Kerala, India

While I was walking down a dirt path in Kumarakom I happened to walk by this small house. There were chickens running around outside, and I stopped to watch them. Just then I glanced at the window and I caught the eyes of this young man.

School boy selfie, Dehli, India
School boy selfie, Dehli, India
Buddhist Pilgrims, Sarnath, India
Buddhist Pilgrims, Sarnath, India

The Stupa in the deer park at Sarnath is one of the holiest places to visit for devotees of Buddha. It was here that Buddha gave his first teaching of the Dharma.

Sadhu at the Ganges River, Varanasi, India
Sadhu at the Ganges River, Varanasi, India

Along the Ganges river edges, at the bottom of the Ghats leading down to the river one can find Sadhus, Priests, worshippers, pilgrims, devotees, yogis and all kinds of people giving their respect to Maa Ganga at all hours of the day and night.

Washing dishes in Varanasi, India
Washing dishes in Varanasi, India

Oftentimes there is one central location that serves as a water source to gather water for bathing, cooking and drinking. Many times people bring their dishes and pots to these water pumps to clean them for later use.

Boatman on the Ganges, Varanasi, India
Boatman on the Ganges, Varanasi, India

Boats line the various ghats in Varanasi awaiting visitors who want to visit the cremation rituals along the banks from the water. These function very much as water rickshaws, and often give young men a way to earn money for their families.

Bathing in the holy waters of Maa Ganga, Varanasi, India
Bathing in the holy waters of Maa Ganga, Varanasi, India

Worshippers of all shapes and sizes, ages and beliefs gather at the the bottom of the ghats to bathe in the holy water of the Ganges river. From early morning to late at night, after the aarti one can witness people bathing and drinking from the river.

Brick maker, Varanasi, India
Brick maker, Varanasi, India
Water vendor, Varanasi, India
Water vendor, Varanasi, India

Not only are there street vendors, but the Ganges river herself is frequented by various vendor who bring the wares to the boats on the river.

Chai Walla, Orchha, India
Chai Walla, Orchha, India

This is one of my favorite photos that i have shot. Very often a visitor will find the people of India are adorned with very vivid colors in a variety of combinations. Even while driving along very rural roads you can spot women working in the fields wearing beautifully colored sarees and scarves.

Food vendor in Dehli, India
Food vendor in Dehli, India

Much of the food is prepared on the street and deep fat fried in ghee, which is clarified butter.

Street Vendor, Orchha, India
Street Vendor, Orchha, India
Street child, Orchha, India
Street child, Orchha, India

This boy has black charcoal around his lower and upper eyes. This is typical in India among children and is often used to ward off evil.

Woman making offerings, Udaipur, India
Woman making offerings, Udaipur, India

Often times women will string together fresh flowers to make elaborate garlands or simple offerings outside of temples. India is a splash of color, especially in the clothing that adorns the women.

Dehli Selfie
Dehli Selfie
Transporting goods in Cochin, Kerala, India
Transporting goods in Cochin, Kerala, India

Motorbikes are used by many in India to transport people as well as goods from one area to another. Although there are rules as to the number of persons allowed on a motorcycle, they are rarely enforced. I once saw a refrigerator being hauled on a motorcycle!

Guard at the City Palace, Jaipur, India
Guard at the City Palace, Jaipur, India

Jairpur, or the Pink City is home to many magnificent forts, palaces and structures. This guard was catching some shade at the City Palace in Jairpur. During the summer months it can get over 100 degrees easily in Rajasthan.

Rickshaw break, Jaipur, India
Rickshaw break, Jaipur, India
Temple worker, Jaipur, India
Temple worker, Jaipur, India
City resident in Jairpur, India
City resident in Jairpur, India

The buildings in Jaipur were painted in 1876 for the Prince of Wales and Queen Victoria. Although the city is referred to as the Pink City, the buildings actually resemble more of a terra cotta shade.

Cobra charmer, Jaipur, India
Cobra charmer, Jaipur, India

Snake charmers are plentiful throughout India. Many can be found outside temples and major tourists sites. Most of the snakes have had their teeth removed, so they actually pose no threat to the snake charmer. (sorry!)

Street cleaners, Jaipur, India
Street cleaners, Jaipur, India
Snake Charmer, Jaipur, India
Snake Charmer, Jaipur, India
Transporting goods to market, Jairpur, India
Transporting goods to market, Jairpur, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Chai break, Jaipur, India
Chai break, Jaipur, India

Chai is drank all day and all night, especially in the mornings. There are chai wallahs all over most cities. There really is no directory for finding one, the best way is to just get out and explore the city and look for a crowd. Each chai is made on the spot and is thus very safe to drink, as the water is boiled and chai is served very, very hot.

City Palace worker, Udaipur, India
City Palace worker, Udaipur, India
Street vendor in vegetable market, Jaipur, India
Street vendor in vegetable market, Jaipur, India
Street vendors, Jaipur, India
Street vendors, Jaipur, India
Temple Worshipper in Udaipur
Temple Worshipper in Udaipur
Street Vendor in Udaipur, India
Street Vendor in Udaipur, India

Women making offerings for worshippers to present at the temple

Women outside temple, Udaipur, India
Women outside temple, Udaipur, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Temple worker, Udaipur, India
Temple worker, Udaipur, India
Sagar, Bodh Gaya, India
Sagar, Bodh Gaya, India

I met this young man in Bodh Gaya, India after i had competed my 10 day Vipassana meditation course. He took me around the neighborhoods in Bodh Gaya and then to his home to meet his mother and siblings. I have stayed in touch with him to this day. He is one of the kindest souls I have ever met.

Tuk Tuk driver, Udaipur, India
Tuk Tuk driver, Udaipur, India

Tuks Tuks, or autos are a means of transport that are a bit faster than rickshaws as they are diesel driven. The price is totally in the hands of the driver, although there are “standard” rates. Locals usually get a much lower rate, but if one is open to bartering hard, getting a local price is possible.

Women and children, Udaipur, India
Women and children, Udaipur, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Sisters in Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Sisters in Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Vegetable seller, Mumbai, India
Vegetable seller, Mumbai, India

Vendors arrive early in the morning and painstakingly set up their shops, often arranging the fruits and vegetables in intricate patterns.

Break time, Mumbai
Break time, Mumbai
Vegetable seller, Mumbai, India
Vegetable seller, Mumbai, India
Vegetable vendor, Mumbai, India
Vegetable vendor, Mumbai, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Market place, Mumbai, India
Market place, Mumbai, India

Vegetable markets are all over big cities, but especially close to the trains stations. The variety is amazing and the vegetables are always fresh as they are brought in each day from the fields.

Train travel, Mumbai, India
Train travel, Mumbai, India

Trains are regularly used by Indians and is often times the fastest mode of travel, as roads can be very slow and congested because of the sheer number or people and vehicles. People do not stop embarking on the trains until there is literally no room left, and it is not uncommon to see people riding on top the trains or hanging off the trains.

Young street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Young street Vendor, Mumbai, India

Selling is often times a family affair, with young children accompanying their parents to the market.

Vegetable vendor, Mumbai
Vegetable vendor, Mumbai
Coconut vendor, Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Coconut vendor, Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Mother and child at the Dhobi Ghat, Mumbai
Mother and child at the Dhobi Ghat, Mumbai
Boatman, Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Boatman, Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Street Vendor at Gate of India, Mumbai
Street Vendor at Gate of India, Mumbai
Friends at the Mumbai shoreline
Friends at the Mumbai shoreline
Women cleaning fish in Kumarakom, India
Women cleaning fish in Kumarakom, India
Guarav, worker at my campsite, Prayagraj, India
Guarav, worker at my campsite, Prayagraj, India

This was one of the workers at the campsite where I stayed for my time at the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. We became fast friends, and he ended up taking me on his motorcycle all around the area. He also negotiated with the boatmen the day I took a boat out the the Sanga to bathe in the Ganga, and rode with me on the boat. I have stayed in touch with him and have never forgotten his kindness.

Man hauling bags in Dehli, India
Man hauling bags in Dehli, India
Friends at Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai, India
Friends at Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai, India
Street Barber, Dehli, India
Street Barber, Dehli, India
Boy collecting trash along Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai, India
Boy collecting trash along Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai, India
Women washing clothes in Udaipur, India
Women washing clothes in Udaipur, India
Boys in the park, Dehli, India
Boys in the park, Dehli, India
Every Bullet has its Billet
Every Bullet has its Billet
School girls in Kumarakom, Kerala, India
School girls in Kumarakom, Kerala, India

The eyes of this little girl stopped me in my tracks. It is common to see small children in India with dark circles around their eyes. It is thought to ward off evil.

Boy in Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Boy in Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Village boy Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Village boy Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Naga of the Juna Akhara, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Naga of the Juna Akhara, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

This is one of the Naga Sadhu of the Juna Akhara’s. He is naked and his body is covered with black ash. He would be one of the first to bathe at the Sanga the day of the Royal Bathing, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India.

Boatman, Kukarakom, Kerala, India
Boatman, Kukarakom, Kerala, India
Girl at the the Dhobi Ghat, Mumbai, India
Girl at the the Dhobi Ghat, Mumbai, India

Dohbi Ghat is an open air laundromat in Mumbai. The washers, known as dhobis, work in the open to clean clothes that they collect from around the city, including the cities hotels and hospitals. The clothes are placed in large vats of water, where they are stomped on by a bare foot individual. Then the clothes are beat against large rocks or blocks of concrete and laid flat in the open air to dry.

Wrestlers, Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Wrestlers, Kumarakom, Kerala, India

I was treated to a Kalarippayat demonstration on the lawn one evening. Kalarippayat is the unique martial arts of Kerala. It is one of the oldest traditional martial arts, physical culture and self defense methods in the world. The names, Kalarippayat is derived from two words in Malayalam, Kalari and Payatt, Kalari meaning the place, where proper training is imparted for body and mind. Payatt literally means practice or exercise. In the present context, it means the traditional style of combat. Today it is a hidden art that is out of the public and is only taught in families and passed down through the generations

Village boy in Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Village boy in Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Transport workers, Mumbai, India
Transport workers, Mumbai, India
Man on street, Udaipur, India
Man on street, Udaipur, India

This man was sitting on the sidewalk in Udaipur. I was struck by his elegant look.

School girl at the train station, Mumbai
School girl at the train station, Mumbai
Jaipur street Vendor
Jaipur street Vendor
Bathing at sunset, Ganges River, Varanasi, India
Bathing at sunset, Ganges River, Varanasi, India
Sadhus marching towards the Sanga for the Royal Bath, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhus marching towards the Sanga for the Royal Bath, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Small child at abandoned construction site, Amritsar, India
Small child at abandoned construction site, Amritsar, India

After visiting the Golden Temple in Amritsar I ventured down a narrow side road in the old section of the city. Both sides of the road were lined with automobile repair shops, motor repair, rickshaw repair, electronic parts shops, etc. As I walked along greeting the man that I encountered I saw a very small child pop her head up from what looked to be an abandoned construction site. She was literally playing with bricks, stacking them up to make various shapes. As I raised my camera she gave me this tentative smile.

Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj

I found this young man on the sand, standing very still among all the chaos at the Kumbh Mela. I approached him and raised my camera and eyes as if to ask “is is ok?” He stood completely still. We never spoke a word.

Varanasi, India
Varanasi, India

I found this small boy on the ghats in Varanasi along the Ganges river. I knelt down and chatted with him and asked if I could take a photo with him. I handed the camera to someone and got this shot.

Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj

This gentleman was selling picture postcards of a religious nature. He was walking around the area inside the tent city at the Kumbh Mela where pilgrims pitched their tents. He held out his postcard to me and asked for some rupees. I told him I didn’t want a postcard, but I would give him a donation for a photo.

Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Saaaaaanjay!
Saaaaaanjay!

I met this young man the very first day at my campsite. He would bring me hot water for my shower in the morning and fresh chai as soon as I woke up. He had an amazing personality and a great sense of humor. You could hear his laughter across the camp. His nickname for some reason was Sanjay, and every time I would see him I would yell loudly across the camp SAAAANJAY!

Pilgrim at Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya, India
Pilgrim at Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Boatman for the ride out to the Sanga for Holy dip in Ganges, Prayagraj, India
Boatman for the ride out to the Sanga for Holy dip in Ganges, Prayagraj, India
Street vendor in Amritsar, India
Street vendor in Amritsar, India
Transport worker, Amritsar, India
Transport worker, Amritsar, India

I was continually amazed at the large loads that I would see being hauled on bicycles and rickshaws, and often times carried on ones head.

Brothers in Barnet, India
Brothers in Barnet, India

Barnet is a very small village high in the Himalayan mountains. It has a population of about 300. I hiked there one morning and happened upon these two little guys as in entered the village. The very proudly introduced me to their mother and guided me around the small village.

Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, 2019
Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, 2019

Pilgrims on the shore of Mother Ganga, Prayagraj, India

His Holiness the Dalai Lama, McLeod Ganj, India
His Holiness the Dalai Lama, McLeod Ganj, India

The first morning of my stay in the small town of McLeod Ganj in northern India i happened upon a note tacked up on the bulletin board by the check in desk. The Dali Lama had cancelled a trip and was going to give an audience to all the foreign visitors in the area. I proceeded to the Temple, which was just at the bottom of the hill from my guest house. He was such a kind man and generously laughed and chucked at every opportunity. It was a moment that I never dreamt I would have in my life.

Chandi Chowk, Old Dehli, India
Chandi Chowk, Old Dehli, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Local train at Kangra, India
Local train at Kangra, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrims at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrims at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Naga Sadhu, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Naga Sadhu, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

As part of their renunciation, these initiates tie heavy objects to their penis to numb them and take away sexual urges.

The faces of the new India
The faces of the new India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhus, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhus, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrims at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrims at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhus, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhus, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

This Sadhu has held his hand straight up for 28 years. Some others never sit down, never talk or dont eat solid foods. It is a form of religious sacrifice.

Father and son at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Father and son at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Naga Sadhu, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Naga Sadhu, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Naga Initiates marching down to the Royal Bathing Day
Naga Initiates marching down to the Royal Bathing Day
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrims headed out to the Sanga on Royal Bathing Day, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrims headed out to the Sanga on Royal Bathing Day, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Couple resting at the Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Couple resting at the Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Mother and son bathing on Royal Bath Day, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Mother and son bathing on Royal Bath Day, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Sadhu initiates at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu initiates at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
His Holiness the Dalai Lama audience with foreign visitors, McLeod Ganj, India
His Holiness the Dalai Lama audience with foreign visitors, McLeod Ganj, India

I was fortunate to meet HH the Dalai Lama on a trip to northern India

Receiving a blessing from a Sadhu, Juna Akhara Camp, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Receiving a blessing from a Sadhu, Juna Akhara Camp, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Mechanic, Uttar Pradesh, India
Mechanic, Uttar Pradesh, India
Chandi Chowk, Old Dehli, India
Chandi Chowk, Old Dehli, India
Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, 2019
Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, 2019

Family at the Ganga, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

Snake Charmer, Jaipur, India
Snake Charmer, Jaipur, India
Women with saris, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Women with saris, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Tent City, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Tent City, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Friends, Prayagraj, India
Friends, Prayagraj, India
Mumbai Lunch break
Mumbai Lunch break
Ride share, Punjab, India
Ride share, Punjab, India
Sikh driver, Punjab, India
Sikh driver, Punjab, India
Rickshaws, Amritsar, India
Rickshaws, Amritsar, India
Temple Worshipper in Udaipur
Young Sikhs, Amritsar, India
Sadhus marching towards the Sanga for the Royal Bath, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Small boy in the Tent City, Prayagra, India
Local school near Bodh Gaya, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Plastic Collector near Bodh Gaya, India
Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, 2019
Construction worker, Punjab, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Mauni Amavasya, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Agra, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Young Buddhist Monk, Bodh Gaya, India
Devotee at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Street Vendor
Kerala, India
Chai customer, Prayagraj, India
Kerala, India
Devotee at the Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya, India
Varanasi, India
Dehli, India
Jama Masjid, Dehli, India
Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai
Dehli, India
Humayun's Tomb, Dehli, India
School boy in Kerala, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Sadhus marching towards the Sanga for the Royal Bath, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Dharavati, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Varanasi, India
Varanasi, India
Village boy in Kerala, India
Family at Jama Masjid Mosque, Dehli, India
Village Family, Rural India
Women working near Jairpur, India
Boys of Cochin, India
Class at local school near Bodh Gaya, India
Village men of Kerala, India
Women near Jaipur, India
School girl in Kerala, India
Father and son in Mumbai
Boatmen in the backwaters of Kerala, India
Kerala, India
Street vendor in Dehli, India
Spice Merchant in Dehli
Basket weaver in Dehli
Kerala, India
Sarnath, India
Girl with child, Kerala, India
Children in the Tent City, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Village family in Kerala, India
Train travel in Mumbai
Street Vendor, Dehli
Smoke Break in the Himalayans, Dharmkot, India
Village men of Kerala, India
Friends on the street, Dehli
Man going to bathe in Kerala, India
Juna Akhara Sadhu, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Villagers in Bakraur, India
Chai Break, Dharmkot, India
Woman washing clothes in Barnet, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Village girl in Bodh Gaya, India
Tour Guide, Punjab, India
My driver and his wife
Shopkeeper, McLeod Ganj, India
Tent City, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Family in Chetdu, India
Entrance to Tent City, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Young Monk near Dharamshala
Sadhus, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Dehli, India
Red Fort, Dehli, India
School boys at Jama Masjid Mosque, Dehli, India
A very common transport in India
Sikh Family in Park, Dehli, India
Young school boys in Dehli
Rickshaw drivers, Dehli, India
Garland maker at the ghats, Varanasi, India
Pilgrims at the Ganga River, Varanasi, India
Neem seller, Varanasi, India
Rickshaw driver on break, Varanasi, India
Buddhist monks circumambulating stupa at Sarnath, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
I see you in Kumarakom, Kerala, India
School boy selfie, Dehli, India
Buddhist Pilgrims, Sarnath, India
Sadhu at the Ganges River, Varanasi, India
Washing dishes in Varanasi, India
Boatman on the Ganges, Varanasi, India
Bathing in the holy waters of Maa Ganga, Varanasi, India
Brick maker, Varanasi, India
Water vendor, Varanasi, India
Chai Walla, Orchha, India
Food vendor in Dehli, India
Street Vendor, Orchha, India
Street child, Orchha, India
Woman making offerings, Udaipur, India
Dehli Selfie
Transporting goods in Cochin, Kerala, India
Guard at the City Palace, Jaipur, India
Rickshaw break, Jaipur, India
Temple worker, Jaipur, India
City resident in Jairpur, India
Cobra charmer, Jaipur, India
Street cleaners, Jaipur, India
Snake Charmer, Jaipur, India
Transporting goods to market, Jairpur, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Chai break, Jaipur, India
City Palace worker, Udaipur, India
Street vendor in vegetable market, Jaipur, India
Street vendors, Jaipur, India
Temple Worshipper in Udaipur
Street Vendor in Udaipur, India
Women outside temple, Udaipur, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Temple worker, Udaipur, India
Sagar, Bodh Gaya, India
Tuk Tuk driver, Udaipur, India
Women and children, Udaipur, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Sisters in Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Vegetable seller, Mumbai, India
Break time, Mumbai
Vegetable seller, Mumbai, India
Vegetable vendor, Mumbai, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Market place, Mumbai, India
Train travel, Mumbai, India
Young street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Vegetable vendor, Mumbai
Coconut vendor, Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Mother and child at the Dhobi Ghat, Mumbai
Boatman, Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Street Vendor at Gate of India, Mumbai
Friends at the Mumbai shoreline
Women cleaning fish in Kumarakom, India
Guarav, worker at my campsite, Prayagraj, India
Man hauling bags in Dehli, India
Friends at Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai, India
Street Barber, Dehli, India
Boy collecting trash along Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai, India
Women washing clothes in Udaipur, India
Boys in the park, Dehli, India
Every Bullet has its Billet
School girls in Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Boy in Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Village boy Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Naga of the Juna Akhara, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Boatman, Kukarakom, Kerala, India
Girl at the the Dhobi Ghat, Mumbai, India
Wrestlers, Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Village boy in Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Transport workers, Mumbai, India
Man on street, Udaipur, India
School girl at the train station, Mumbai
Jaipur street Vendor
Bathing at sunset, Ganges River, Varanasi, India
Sadhus marching towards the Sanga for the Royal Bath, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Small child at abandoned construction site, Amritsar, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Varanasi, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Saaaaaanjay!
Pilgrim at Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Boatman for the ride out to the Sanga for Holy dip in Ganges, Prayagraj, India
Street vendor in Amritsar, India
Transport worker, Amritsar, India
Brothers in Barnet, India
Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, 2019
His Holiness the Dalai Lama, McLeod Ganj, India
Chandi Chowk, Old Dehli, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Local train at Kangra, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrims at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Naga Sadhu, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
The faces of the new India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhus, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrims at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhus, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Father and son at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Naga Sadhu, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Naga Initiates marching down to the Royal Bathing Day
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrims headed out to the Sanga on Royal Bathing Day, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Couple resting at the Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Mother and son bathing on Royal Bath Day, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Sadhu initiates at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
His Holiness the Dalai Lama audience with foreign visitors, McLeod Ganj, India
Receiving a blessing from a Sadhu, Juna Akhara Camp, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Mechanic, Uttar Pradesh, India
Chandi Chowk, Old Dehli, India
Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, 2019
Snake Charmer, Jaipur, India
Women with saris, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Tent City, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Friends, Prayagraj, India
Mumbai Lunch break
Ride share, Punjab, India
Sikh driver, Punjab, India
Rickshaws, Amritsar, India
Temple Worshipper in Udaipur

As I was exiting a temple in India, I noticed this woman on the steps and asked if I could photograph her. She smiled for me, and after clicking the photo I handed her a small rupee note. Her joy at receiving the “backsheesh” was infectious and I then snapped this additional photo.

Young Sikhs, Amritsar, India

I happened upon a group of young school boys who all happened to be Sikhs. I took many photos with them, but this was one of my favorites. They were just delightful.

Sadhus marching towards the Sanga for the Royal Bath, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

This group of Sadhu’s had enormous dreadlocks of braided hair that they spun around and waved in the air as they marched down to take their holy bath in the Ganges at the Kumbh Mela on the Royal Bath day, the busiest day of the entire Kumbh Mela. That day there were 50 million pilgrims attending.

Small boy in the Tent City, Prayagra, India

During the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, a giant Tent City was formed that housed all of the various Sadhus and facilities. There was a very large area that was provided for families and devotees that wanted to camp over the 55 day festival. This little guy was walking along the dusty road inside the camp one late afternoon. As I was headed back to my campsite out of the Tent City, i stopped and kneeled down in front of him and asked if I could take his photo. He had such large, sweet eyes. In his hand he was carrying some sort of snack wrapped in newspaper. His bare feet had turned as white as the sand he was walking on. After i shot his photo, he went skipping down the road singing some sort of tune and waving his hands.

Local school near Bodh Gaya, India

One early morning I ventured down a dirt road away from Bodh Gaya proper to explore. I happened upon this small school. The children had just eaten and were in the process of brushing their teeth. When they saw me with my camera they all scampered over to the window and peered out.

Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

This Sadhu was giving blessings and lighting fires for devotees and anyone who wanted to visit. You were asked to remove your shoes and kneel in front of him if you wanted a blessing. The entire ground was covered in rich blankets and rugs, and smoke was billowing up in all directions. His body was completely covered in ash, and he was naked except for a cloth over his lap.

Plastic Collector near Bodh Gaya, India

One afternoon on a dirt road outside of Bodh Gaya I happened upon this man walking down in the ditches along the road. It appeared that he was picking up plastic trash. As he was walking away I watched him lumber along, with a full sack of recyclable plastic on his back. I reached into my pocket and found a 100 rupee note. I turned and walked purposefully toward him, and as I approached he turned around. I reached out and handed him the note. He dropped his cloth sack and started sobbing and raising the rupee note to the sky. At that moment I felt very close to him, so i touched the top of his head and bowed, smiling. As I turned to walk away he was still sobbing. It was a moment that I will hold with me for the rest of my life.

Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, 2019

Baba at the Juna Akhara Camp, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India. Before the Royal Bath for the Naga initiates, I spent the night in the tent of this Baba. He smoked hashish the entire night and told stories.

Construction worker, Punjab, India

I was traveling to Varanasi from Amritsar in Punjab. We stopped for a chai in a very small village, and i shot some photos of the Chai wallah and some of the men sitting around the open air shop. As we were getting back in the car, I noticed this man across the street working construction. I was struck by his appearance, as all the other men were just in ragged t-shirts and torn trousers this guy was wearing such an elegant headscarf and brilliant yellow. I was hesitant to approach him, as everyone stopped working and looked at me. I asked if I could photograph him and he stood tall and gave me this amazing look. If you look close, you can see the dirt and sand on his lower left jaw.

Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj

As I was boarding a boat to go out the the Sangam to take bathe, I spotted this young man deep in prayer as he blessed himself with the holy waters of the Ganga.

Mauni Amavasya, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

On this most auspicious day of the Kumbh Mela, known as Mauni Amavasya, flocks of residents come to the shores of Mother Ganga to bathe in her waters to purify their past sins. This is the busiest day for bathing at the Kumbh, because it is believed that the planetary positions are most favorable for bathing in the holy river. This was part of the early morning procession of initiates and Sadhus down to the shore.

Agra, India

I met this young man and his uncle one day outside the Taj Mahal. They told me that if I showed up early the next morning, before the gate was opened, they would slip me in a side gate for a quick photo opportunity before any other people were inside. I did as I was told, and the following morning i was quickly shown all the best spots to photograph the Taj Mahal in the glory of the sunrise. It was a moment that I have never forgotten, and one I am truly grateful for.

Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

This Sadhu in the Juna Akhara tent section of the tent city, Kumbh Mela was one of the most beautiful men I have ever encountered.

Young Buddhist Monk, Bodh Gaya, India

After visiting a giant Buddhist statue, my buddy and I walked across the field to the entrance of a Buddhist Monastery. We went through the gate and I noticed a group of young monks over in a yard. I started towards them and immediately an older man came running towards us yelling and waving his arms. My buddy started speaking to him rapidly in Hindi, but i could make out “sorry uncle….sorry uncle.” He managed to calm him down, and even got his blessing to let us go and talk to the monks. This was one of the monks who allowed me to photograph him.

Devotee at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

I met this gentleman crossing the bridge from the Tent City at the Kumbh Mela to get to the water for the ritual bathing. I saw him ahead of me, and as I walked by I glanced over at him and broke into a big smile. I said “Oh wow. I am going to tell everyone back home that I met Ghandi!” He smiled and laughed and I asked if I could get a photo.

Street Vendor

I met this girl during a brief stop of our tour bus in Orchha. She was selling pieces of jewelry that she had made. I was taken with her eyes and asked her if I could photograph her. Although she was very shy, she stood still and allowed me this shot. Her features were so delicate and such a contrast to the rural, rugged terrain that was all around us.

Kerala, India

This young man was standing by the shore line as our tour bus crossed a bridge into a small village in Kerala. He briefly turned around and saw my camera and gave me this amazing shot. It was a mixture of curiosity and kindness, and was a great welcome.

Chai customer, Prayagraj, India

One early evening I was walking back to my campsite from the tent city at the Kumbh Mela and I stopped for a chai. I had walked past this little stand on my way down to the Kumbh, and when they waved me inside I said I would stop on my way back. I ordered a chai and sat down at the table across from this man. I told him I was photographing faces of India. I asked if I could take his photo. He straightened up and leaned against the wall, with sort of a stern look on his face. I said “Smile!” and this is what he gave me!

Kerala, India

I spotted this young man on a walking tour through a small village in Kerala, India. I was intrigued by his smart outfit amidst all the disarray that was all around us. His eyes and face shown with such kindness my heart melted.

Devotee at the Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya, India

After I took a tour inside the Mahabodhi Temple i noticed this man sitting on the wall. He had a small drum that he was shaking back and forth, closing his eyes in prayerful moments. I walked over close to him and stood silently, watching him. He motioned for me to come and join him. I sat down next to him and he handed me the small drum, picked up another and showed me how to shake it. After we played our drums I stood to go and asked him if I could take a photo. He had the most amazing eyes. We never spoke a word.

Varanasi, India

I happened to walk by this mother and her small child on the way down to one of the ghats where the nightly Ganga Aarti takes place. It is a customary way of putting the river Mother Ganga to sleep. Although the mother was very shy, her small child was delighted by the camera. The contrast in their faces was priceless.

Dehli, India

This woman is typical of the many vendors that line up along the roadsides to sell vegetables to the local population as well as visitors. These farmers serve as an important resource for fresh produce and provide the various food stalls with ingredients for the day.

Jama Masjid, Dehli, India

These school children were on a tour of the Jama Masjid mosque in Dehil one late morning. As many children are in India, they were very intrigued by the camera and wanted many “selfies” and photographs taken of them. I loved the splash of red in their uniforms and their infectious spirits and smiles.

Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai

This small boy was skipping rocks along the shoreline at the Chowpatty Beach in Mumbai. I got this shot off just as he was skipping one of his rocks. He got many skips from his rocks, and was quite pleased with his efforts, as I was with this photograph.

Dehli, India

This young man was on the back of a motorcycle riding along a rural road just outside of Dehli, India. I loved the contrast of his jet black hair and the white of his headband.

Humayun's Tomb, Dehli, India

This gentleman was sweeping the grounds around Humayun’s Tomb in Dehli. He stopped for a brief moment to take a rest, and I was able to photograph him against the wall. I was intrigued by how his skin and sweater matched so closely to the red sandstone.

School boy in Kerala, India

I was out walking along a local village road when I spotted this young man sitting outside a hut. I walked over to him and asked if I could take his photo. He shyly smiled.

Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Sadhus marching towards the Sanga for the Royal Bath, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

At 4:30 am in the Tent City, all the initiates and the Sadhu’s began lining up to march toward the Sanga to bathe in the holy Ganga River. This group of men had very long dreadlocks, which they swung around high in the air as they marched. For as far back as the eyes could see, they continued coming: singing, skipping, running, jumping moving towards the water.

Dharavati, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

I was on my way back from a city tour of Mumbai when i noticed an area that looked like a slum off to the side. I asked the driver if we could drive back into it for a bit, but he was hesitant telling me this was something that i didn’t really want to see. I encouraged him to keep going and as we entered the area the car was surrounded by smiling children jumping and waving and so excited for a strange visitor. I managed to get many memorable photos but this photo shows the sheer joy on their faces.

Varanasi, India

These gentleman were boatmen along the ghats on the Ganges river in Varanasi. I asked them if I could take their photo before boarding their boat and they were happy to oblige me.

Varanasi, India

This gentleman was bathing in the Ganga river in Varanasi after the evening Aarti ceremony. I took this in the dark with a flash, but I was happy with the detail I was able to get.

Village boy in Kerala, India

This little boy popped out of a house while i was walking along a village road in Kerala, India.

Family at Jama Masjid Mosque, Dehli, India

On my first visit to Jama Masjid Mosque in Dehli, I spotted this family sitting along an outer wall of the mosque. I approached them timidly not quite sure of the protocol for shooting photographs inside the Mosque. This was taken outside the inner room, in the outdoor courtyard. I very quickly took this shot, immediately hearing a yell from a man. As I turned around, I saw a man running towards me waving a big stick. I lowered my camera and did my best to apologize and quickly went inside. It is one of my favorite photos from all my trips to India.

Village Family, Rural India

This mother was leading her children across the road in a rural village outside of Dehli, India. Their colorful clothes were in sharp contrast to the bricks, mud and dusty road that was all around us.

Women working near Jairpur, India

These women were clearing an area that was under construction, hauling large containers of dirt that had been dug up on their heads.

Boys of Cochin, India

This was a group of boys on break from school in a village in Cochin, India.

Class at local school near Bodh Gaya, India

One morning in Bodh Gaya I ventured down a dirt path that led away from the city proper and came upon a school in session. I peeked in the window and saw the schoolchildren, who scampered over to the window and began shouting and smiling. I motioned that I wanted to come in, and they shook their heads from side to side (which in India can mean a variety of things.) I saw the doorway and walked inside. There I discovered the teacher, a young man who couldn’t have been more than 15 years old. I asked if I could take some photos, and he turned to the children and said something and they all ran outside and lined up for me. This is the photo that resulted from that moment.

Village men of Kerala, India

While on an early morning walk through a remote village in Kerala, I happened upon these two gentlemen sitting by the roadside chatting.

Women near Jaipur, India

These women were sweeping a dirt path along the Amber Palace, a 16th Century fort on a hilltop.

School girl in Kerala, India

Many of the school children in India wear different uniforms when going to private schools. They are the fortunate children. Even when schools are free, many families cannot afford to buy materials or transport their children to school, or the children are needed at home to work to help support the families. Education is really the only hope to break the cycle of poverty for many of these children.

Father and son in Mumbai

This father and son were enjoying a lunch break at a local food market in Mumbai when I approached them and chatted for a bit. The thought it quite amusing that I wanted to take their photo.

Boatmen in the backwaters of Kerala, India

These men were harvesting in the backwaters of Kerala, India.

Kerala, India

Village children in Kerala, India

Street vendor in Dehli, India

This beautiful girl was helping her mother create straw baskets along a roadside outside of Dehli, India.

Spice Merchant in Dehli
Basket weaver in Dehli

This elegant woman was sitting on the road side with her daughter weaving baskets for sale.

Kerala, India

I was out walking early one morning on a dirt road in Kerala and I spotted this gentleman coming back from bathing in the river. He looked so crisp and fresh, with his hair still wet from the river. He graciously allowed me to take his photo, then continued walking down the road.

Sarnath, India

I noticed one pilgrim among the Buddhist worshippers praying against the large stupa. Sarnath is a place north-east of Varanasi near the confluence of the Ganges and Varuna rivers in Uttar Pradesh. This deer park in Sarnath is where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma. The large stupa is built on the spot where Buddha taught, and is in the shape of an inverted begging bowl.

Girl with child, Kerala, India

Many families live together in one household in the villages of India. I believe this was her sister, but I am not certain. Often times you will see black circles around the eyes, particularly in small children. This is thought to ward off evil.

Children in the Tent City, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

These boys were with a family of worshippers staying in the Tent City at the Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

Village family in Kerala, India
Train travel in Mumbai

I caught this as the train was pulling into the station. Traveling by train is very popular in India and is one of the main transports for people. The trains are often packed to overflowing, and it is not uncommon to see people riding on top of the train cars and hanging on through the door openings.

Street Vendor, Dehli
Smoke Break in the Himalayans, Dharmkot, India

On a crisp February day in the mountains of northern India near Dharmkot, I noticed a man crouching down lighting a cigarette. I was very quiet so as not to disturb him I quickly raised my camera and snapped this shot. He never noticed and we never spoke.

Village men of Kerala, India
Friends on the street, Dehli

I was stuck by the warmth shown in this photo. In India it is very common to see men walking down the street holding hands, and women walking holding each others hands. It is strictly forbidden for the opposite sex to show physical affection in public, and is actually quite dangerous.

Man going to bathe in Kerala, India
Juna Akhara Sadhu, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

This Sadhu was at the Juna Akhara camp inside the Tent City at the Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India. Many of these Sadhus live far up in the mountains in caves most of the year, and only come out in public for the Kumbh Mela.

Villagers in Bakraur, India

This tiny village is just outside Bodh Gaya, India. It is a very remote and rustic village with a handful of residents. This small group came out to the roadside to visit and stood for a photo.

Chai Break, Dharmkot, India

This gentleman shared a spot with me as I drank a chai tea in Dharmkot, India

Woman washing clothes in Barnet, India

Barnet is a tiny village high in the Himalayan Mountains composing of about 300 persons. I visited this village on a hike one morning from my hotel on Strawberry Point, near Naddi Village, India.

Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Village girl in Bodh Gaya, India

I was fortunate to meet a couple boys who took me into their village neighborhood in Bodh Gaya, India. I happened upon this school girl who graciously allowed me to photograph her.

Tour Guide, Punjab, India

This man was my tour guide for much of one of my trips in India. He drove me all the way from Dehli to Dharamshala, and drove back up to pick me up and return me to Dehli once I had explored northern India. He introduced me to Chana Masala, which to this day is still one of my very favorite foods. We had a lot of time together in the car, and he spoke very little English. But, I think he understood English much better than he could speak it. He took me on back roads and narrow village roads, which made for a much longer trip but for me much more interesting. One day he surprised me and took me to his house to meet his wife. We are still in contact and I hope to see him again on another trip to India.

My driver and his wife

On one of our road trips in northern India, my driver stopped at his home and introduced me to his wife. His two sons were in school at the time. After i had returned home, i had posted this photo on Instagram. He wrote me a note that said “You are my best friend.” It really touched me. Although he spoke very limited English, we understood each other quite well and had a great road trip together.

Shopkeeper, McLeod Ganj, India

I met this gentleman while walking along Temple Road in McLeod Ganj, India. He had a wide variety of gemstones and beautiful pashmina fabrics. He created a beautiful set of mala beads for me made from all different colors of tiger eye stones. I would visit his shop whenever I was in the area, and would sit and drink chai with him. Not long after I left India, he married and now has a home in Kashmir, where he and his wife’s families are from.

Tent City, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

While out exploring the resident tent area inside the Tent City at the Kumbh Mela, I happened upon this gentleman gazing out of space next to where he was camping. I stopped and asked if I could shoot his photo.

Family in Chetdu, India

On one of the first solo trips to India I met a young man in McLeod Ganj in northern India. He and his friend were offering their services as a guide. As I wasn’t in need of one, we exchanged information and I was on my way. He invited me to visit his family when I was next in India. True to his word, when I next visited I contacted him and stopped by his home on my way to Amritsar. His family was so gracious and kind and I was very moved by their generosity. This tender moment with this family inside their homes was one of the most precious moments I have yet to experience traveling.

Entrance to Tent City, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

This year there were 150 million devotees who attended the 55 day Kumbh Mela, the largest religious gathering in the world. This is the entrance to the Tent City that leads to the Sangam and the holy waters of Mother Ganga.

Young Monk near Dharamshala

I was fortunate to visit a monastery near Dharamshala in northern India. It was eerily silent when we arrived but within a half an hour young monks came sprinting out of every door into the large courtyard. It turns out we had arrived just in time to witness their dance practice and meditation session. I can only describe it as looking a bit like karate or tai kwon do, or perhaps more like Tai Chi. The joy of these young monks was infectious.

Sadhus, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Dehli, India

This gentleman was working as a grounds keeper. Many of the sidewalks and surfaces are cleaned with just a few strands of straw swept back and forth. While this man was using a tool to cut the grass, I also saw many persons sitting on the ground pulling the grass by hand.

Red Fort, Dehli, India

I loved the sentiment of this photo. Often times when visiting a monument or structure of historic significance there are just as many or more Indian citizens visiting on any given day. Indians are very proud of the rich history of their country.

School boys at Jama Masjid Mosque, Dehli, India

This is a perfect example of the kind of reaction one gets when walking around India with a camera. Finding a willing subject is never a problem! As westerners, we all know the one word “namaste” when thinking of India. For Indians, the one word they all use is “selfie!” Many times they will want you to photograph them, then scamper away. It isn’t a selfie in the way we think of it. For many Indians, they only want you to photograph them. It is a wonderful situation for someone like myself who wishes to document India through its people.

A very common transport in India

Motorbikes and scooters of all shapes and sizes are a very common mode of transport in India. Often times there are 4 or 5 person families all crowded on to one bike. I was told that India has a rule that limits the number or riders, but this is not enforced as it is the only means of transport for many families. I noticed that many older women or women who still adhered to traditional dress chose to ride side saddle, but many younger women who wore more western wear straddled the bike as men do, or drove the bike themselves.

Sikh Family in Park, Dehli, India

This is a good example of type of headdress worn by young sikhs in India. One of the practices among the Sikh faith is not cutting ones hair. Many of the younger men just wear a type of covering with a sort of bun on top. It looks like many of the photos one might see of the Buddha. When they grow older, they mature and move into the more formal Dastaar or turban. Turbans are also common among Sufi scholars and Shia Muslims. I am just assuming that this family are Sikh, but I may be wrong. Some Sikh women also choose to wear turbans.

Young school boys in Dehli

This photo demonstrates the sheer abandonment and joy of what it is to be a child. These children were on a school trip and were clearly taking the opportunity to play amongst themselves.

Rickshaw drivers, Dehli, India

Taking a rickshaw ride is a rite of passage for any tourist visiting India, but is also a very popular way to earn a living in India. While one may think it is cruel or burdensome to ride while another does all the work, it is often times is the only available means to make a living among the very crowded cities in India. Depending on the area one is visiting within the cities, many times a rickshaw or motorbike is the only way to maneuver some of the very narrow alleyways and streets, particularly in Old Dehli and in the very popular Chandi Chowk marketplace.

Garland maker at the ghats, Varanasi, India

On the banks of the holy Ganges river, at the bottom of the ghats in Varanasi many people gather to take boats out to watch the morning and evening Aarti, or to give offerings of flowers to the Goddess Ganga, also affectionately referred to as Maa Ganga, goddess of the holiest river in India. One common offering is a small candle nestled in fresh flowers (often times a geranium) that sits on a round piece of paper that will then float on the water top when launched by a worshipper. Along the ghats sit women and men making these offerings and garlands consisting of fresh flowers.

Pilgrims at the Ganga River, Varanasi, India

For the evening aarti, many worshippers gather at the rivers edge to put the river to sleep each night. There is an elaborate performance every evening and early morning. This has been going on since the creation of the city of Varanasi, which is the oldest continually inhabited city in the world.

Neem seller, Varanasi, India

Neem sticks are traditionally used for oral care in India. They are an all-natural, fully plant-based, and totally biodegradable option for teeth cleaning. It is very easy to find these sticks, as there are always vendors anywhere you find people selling goods. These are actually available in the United States as well. I tried them, along with Neem powder mixed with toothpaste with good results.

Rickshaw driver on break, Varanasi, India

Rickshaws are a very common way to get down to the various ghats along the Ganges river in Varanasi. All day, every day there are lines and lines of these small vehicles hauling visitors down the the river. This is a important source of income for many Indians. It appears to be self regulated, and the price of a ride will vary greatly depending on the mood of the driver at the time. A good rule of thumb is that the initially quoted will be three times the price that will be accepted. Usually locals are charged a much lower fare than a foreign visitor.

Buddhist monks circumambulating stupa at Sarnath, India

It is common practice when visiting a stupa to circumambulate around the outside of the stupa, at least three times in a clockwise direction. This is thought to be the most beneficial in gaining merit and blessings for oneself and ones loved ones. The large stupa at Sarnath was erected in the very spot that Buddha gave his first teaching on the Dharma. It is in the shape of an inverted begging bowl, and is one of the many holy sites visited by followers of Buddhism.

Street Vendor, Mumbai, India

This photo is a great example of the variety of items one can find for sale among the streets of India. In the hanging basket are large cow patties that are used as fuel for fire and for making roofs and patching dwellings. The middle basket contains chillums (pipes) that are used to smoke tobacco, marijuana, or a combination of both. Often times these are used by Sadhus in temples or religious of Holy days. The small containers on the ground are used as chai (tea) containers. Most often the hot chai is served in these clay cups, then they are smashed and recycled to create more cups.

I see you in Kumarakom, Kerala, India

While I was walking down a dirt path in Kumarakom I happened to walk by this small house. There were chickens running around outside, and I stopped to watch them. Just then I glanced at the window and I caught the eyes of this young man.

School boy selfie, Dehli, India
Buddhist Pilgrims, Sarnath, India

The Stupa in the deer park at Sarnath is one of the holiest places to visit for devotees of Buddha. It was here that Buddha gave his first teaching of the Dharma.

Sadhu at the Ganges River, Varanasi, India

Along the Ganges river edges, at the bottom of the Ghats leading down to the river one can find Sadhus, Priests, worshippers, pilgrims, devotees, yogis and all kinds of people giving their respect to Maa Ganga at all hours of the day and night.

Washing dishes in Varanasi, India

Oftentimes there is one central location that serves as a water source to gather water for bathing, cooking and drinking. Many times people bring their dishes and pots to these water pumps to clean them for later use.

Boatman on the Ganges, Varanasi, India

Boats line the various ghats in Varanasi awaiting visitors who want to visit the cremation rituals along the banks from the water. These function very much as water rickshaws, and often give young men a way to earn money for their families.

Bathing in the holy waters of Maa Ganga, Varanasi, India

Worshippers of all shapes and sizes, ages and beliefs gather at the the bottom of the ghats to bathe in the holy water of the Ganges river. From early morning to late at night, after the aarti one can witness people bathing and drinking from the river.

Brick maker, Varanasi, India
Water vendor, Varanasi, India

Not only are there street vendors, but the Ganges river herself is frequented by various vendor who bring the wares to the boats on the river.

Chai Walla, Orchha, India

This is one of my favorite photos that i have shot. Very often a visitor will find the people of India are adorned with very vivid colors in a variety of combinations. Even while driving along very rural roads you can spot women working in the fields wearing beautifully colored sarees and scarves.

Food vendor in Dehli, India

Much of the food is prepared on the street and deep fat fried in ghee, which is clarified butter.

Street Vendor, Orchha, India
Street child, Orchha, India

This boy has black charcoal around his lower and upper eyes. This is typical in India among children and is often used to ward off evil.

Woman making offerings, Udaipur, India

Often times women will string together fresh flowers to make elaborate garlands or simple offerings outside of temples. India is a splash of color, especially in the clothing that adorns the women.

Dehli Selfie
Transporting goods in Cochin, Kerala, India

Motorbikes are used by many in India to transport people as well as goods from one area to another. Although there are rules as to the number of persons allowed on a motorcycle, they are rarely enforced. I once saw a refrigerator being hauled on a motorcycle!

Guard at the City Palace, Jaipur, India

Jairpur, or the Pink City is home to many magnificent forts, palaces and structures. This guard was catching some shade at the City Palace in Jairpur. During the summer months it can get over 100 degrees easily in Rajasthan.

Rickshaw break, Jaipur, India
Temple worker, Jaipur, India
City resident in Jairpur, India

The buildings in Jaipur were painted in 1876 for the Prince of Wales and Queen Victoria. Although the city is referred to as the Pink City, the buildings actually resemble more of a terra cotta shade.

Cobra charmer, Jaipur, India

Snake charmers are plentiful throughout India. Many can be found outside temples and major tourists sites. Most of the snakes have had their teeth removed, so they actually pose no threat to the snake charmer. (sorry!)

Street cleaners, Jaipur, India
Snake Charmer, Jaipur, India
Transporting goods to market, Jairpur, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Chai break, Jaipur, India

Chai is drank all day and all night, especially in the mornings. There are chai wallahs all over most cities. There really is no directory for finding one, the best way is to just get out and explore the city and look for a crowd. Each chai is made on the spot and is thus very safe to drink, as the water is boiled and chai is served very, very hot.

City Palace worker, Udaipur, India
Street vendor in vegetable market, Jaipur, India
Street vendors, Jaipur, India
Temple Worshipper in Udaipur
Street Vendor in Udaipur, India

Women making offerings for worshippers to present at the temple

Women outside temple, Udaipur, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Temple worker, Udaipur, India
Sagar, Bodh Gaya, India

I met this young man in Bodh Gaya, India after i had competed my 10 day Vipassana meditation course. He took me around the neighborhoods in Bodh Gaya and then to his home to meet his mother and siblings. I have stayed in touch with him to this day. He is one of the kindest souls I have ever met.

Tuk Tuk driver, Udaipur, India

Tuks Tuks, or autos are a means of transport that are a bit faster than rickshaws as they are diesel driven. The price is totally in the hands of the driver, although there are “standard” rates. Locals usually get a much lower rate, but if one is open to bartering hard, getting a local price is possible.

Women and children, Udaipur, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Sisters in Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Vegetable seller, Mumbai, India

Vendors arrive early in the morning and painstakingly set up their shops, often arranging the fruits and vegetables in intricate patterns.

Break time, Mumbai
Vegetable seller, Mumbai, India
Vegetable vendor, Mumbai, India
Street Vendor, Mumbai, India
Market place, Mumbai, India

Vegetable markets are all over big cities, but especially close to the trains stations. The variety is amazing and the vegetables are always fresh as they are brought in each day from the fields.

Train travel, Mumbai, India

Trains are regularly used by Indians and is often times the fastest mode of travel, as roads can be very slow and congested because of the sheer number or people and vehicles. People do not stop embarking on the trains until there is literally no room left, and it is not uncommon to see people riding on top the trains or hanging off the trains.

Young street Vendor, Mumbai, India

Selling is often times a family affair, with young children accompanying their parents to the market.

Vegetable vendor, Mumbai
Coconut vendor, Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Mother and child at the Dhobi Ghat, Mumbai
Boatman, Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Street Vendor at Gate of India, Mumbai
Friends at the Mumbai shoreline
Women cleaning fish in Kumarakom, India
Guarav, worker at my campsite, Prayagraj, India

This was one of the workers at the campsite where I stayed for my time at the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. We became fast friends, and he ended up taking me on his motorcycle all around the area. He also negotiated with the boatmen the day I took a boat out the the Sanga to bathe in the Ganga, and rode with me on the boat. I have stayed in touch with him and have never forgotten his kindness.

Man hauling bags in Dehli, India
Friends at Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai, India
Street Barber, Dehli, India
Boy collecting trash along Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai, India
Women washing clothes in Udaipur, India
Boys in the park, Dehli, India
Every Bullet has its Billet
School girls in Kumarakom, Kerala, India

The eyes of this little girl stopped me in my tracks. It is common to see small children in India with dark circles around their eyes. It is thought to ward off evil.

Boy in Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Village boy Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Naga of the Juna Akhara, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

This is one of the Naga Sadhu of the Juna Akhara’s. He is naked and his body is covered with black ash. He would be one of the first to bathe at the Sanga the day of the Royal Bathing, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India.

Boatman, Kukarakom, Kerala, India
Girl at the the Dhobi Ghat, Mumbai, India

Dohbi Ghat is an open air laundromat in Mumbai. The washers, known as dhobis, work in the open to clean clothes that they collect from around the city, including the cities hotels and hospitals. The clothes are placed in large vats of water, where they are stomped on by a bare foot individual. Then the clothes are beat against large rocks or blocks of concrete and laid flat in the open air to dry.

Wrestlers, Kumarakom, Kerala, India

I was treated to a Kalarippayat demonstration on the lawn one evening. Kalarippayat is the unique martial arts of Kerala. It is one of the oldest traditional martial arts, physical culture and self defense methods in the world. The names, Kalarippayat is derived from two words in Malayalam, Kalari and Payatt, Kalari meaning the place, where proper training is imparted for body and mind. Payatt literally means practice or exercise. In the present context, it means the traditional style of combat. Today it is a hidden art that is out of the public and is only taught in families and passed down through the generations

Village boy in Kumarakom, Kerala, India
Transport workers, Mumbai, India
Man on street, Udaipur, India

This man was sitting on the sidewalk in Udaipur. I was struck by his elegant look.

School girl at the train station, Mumbai
Jaipur street Vendor
Bathing at sunset, Ganges River, Varanasi, India
Sadhus marching towards the Sanga for the Royal Bath, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Small child at abandoned construction site, Amritsar, India

After visiting the Golden Temple in Amritsar I ventured down a narrow side road in the old section of the city. Both sides of the road were lined with automobile repair shops, motor repair, rickshaw repair, electronic parts shops, etc. As I walked along greeting the man that I encountered I saw a very small child pop her head up from what looked to be an abandoned construction site. She was literally playing with bricks, stacking them up to make various shapes. As I raised my camera she gave me this tentative smile.

Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj

I found this young man on the sand, standing very still among all the chaos at the Kumbh Mela. I approached him and raised my camera and eyes as if to ask “is is ok?” He stood completely still. We never spoke a word.

Varanasi, India

I found this small boy on the ghats in Varanasi along the Ganges river. I knelt down and chatted with him and asked if I could take a photo with him. I handed the camera to someone and got this shot.

Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj

This gentleman was selling picture postcards of a religious nature. He was walking around the area inside the tent city at the Kumbh Mela where pilgrims pitched their tents. He held out his postcard to me and asked for some rupees. I told him I didn’t want a postcard, but I would give him a donation for a photo.

Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Saaaaaanjay!

I met this young man the very first day at my campsite. He would bring me hot water for my shower in the morning and fresh chai as soon as I woke up. He had an amazing personality and a great sense of humor. You could hear his laughter across the camp. His nickname for some reason was Sanjay, and every time I would see him I would yell loudly across the camp SAAAANJAY!

Pilgrim at Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Boatman for the ride out to the Sanga for Holy dip in Ganges, Prayagraj, India
Street vendor in Amritsar, India
Transport worker, Amritsar, India

I was continually amazed at the large loads that I would see being hauled on bicycles and rickshaws, and often times carried on ones head.

Brothers in Barnet, India

Barnet is a very small village high in the Himalayan mountains. It has a population of about 300. I hiked there one morning and happened upon these two little guys as in entered the village. The very proudly introduced me to their mother and guided me around the small village.

Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, 2019

Pilgrims on the shore of Mother Ganga, Prayagraj, India

His Holiness the Dalai Lama, McLeod Ganj, India

The first morning of my stay in the small town of McLeod Ganj in northern India i happened upon a note tacked up on the bulletin board by the check in desk. The Dali Lama had cancelled a trip and was going to give an audience to all the foreign visitors in the area. I proceeded to the Temple, which was just at the bottom of the hill from my guest house. He was such a kind man and generously laughed and chucked at every opportunity. It was a moment that I never dreamt I would have in my life.

Chandi Chowk, Old Dehli, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Local train at Kangra, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrims at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Naga Sadhu, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

As part of their renunciation, these initiates tie heavy objects to their penis to numb them and take away sexual urges.

The faces of the new India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhus, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrims at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhus, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

This Sadhu has held his hand straight up for 28 years. Some others never sit down, never talk or dont eat solid foods. It is a form of religious sacrifice.

Father and son at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Naga Sadhu, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Naga Initiates marching down to the Royal Bathing Day
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrims headed out to the Sanga on Royal Bathing Day, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Couple resting at the Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Pilgrim at Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Sadhu at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Mother and son bathing on Royal Bath Day, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj
Sadhu initiates at the Juna Akhara tents, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
His Holiness the Dalai Lama audience with foreign visitors, McLeod Ganj, India

I was fortunate to meet HH the Dalai Lama on a trip to northern India

Receiving a blessing from a Sadhu, Juna Akhara Camp, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Mechanic, Uttar Pradesh, India
Chandi Chowk, Old Dehli, India
Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, 2019

Family at the Ganga, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India

Snake Charmer, Jaipur, India
Women with saris, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Tent City, Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, India
Friends, Prayagraj, India
Mumbai Lunch break
Ride share, Punjab, India
Sikh driver, Punjab, India
Rickshaws, Amritsar, India
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