Introduction

What is it about the countryside and its cattle that makes one pause and ponder? What is it about the hilly terrains and weathered faces of the villagers that makes one look deep within? Is my conscience trying to say something to me or is it merely the question in those unsearching eyes?

My passion for travelling has taken me to umpteen places, across Maharashtra, which has its own unique identity. My recent trip to a nondescript small village of Harishchandra Gad, left behind indelible marks in my heart.

As I sat with a few villagers sharing their meagre portions of Bhakari-chutney and Kanda, I tasted human warmth and affection. The toothless grin and the nonchalant gaze welcomed me to the soothing, rustic environs. The lone trees and the distant horizon reclaimed me from the clutches of modern concrete settlements. I gave in, and tried to freeze those unique moments of life, with my third eye – the camera.