Photo Essays
July – Photo of the Month
We continue to get more beautiful, jaw-dropping pictures of rural India, courtesy our remarkable photo community. Have a look at these amazing shortlisted photos for Photo of the Month - July.
The flower power behind Holi
For centuries the coloured powder used during the spring festival Holi, nevermind political rallies and countless parties, was made from natural vegetation. Until chemical colours entered the scene. But as a growing number of Indians realise natural holi powder is kinder on the skin and the environment, the women who turn the flowers into powder are reaping the rewards. (Photos by Gurvinder Singh)
A peek into rural India’s plastic waste
Government of India’s strict ban on the use of ‘single-use plastic’ comes into effect on 1 July, 2022. The notification permits jail term of up to five years, or a penalty of up to Rs 1 lakh, or both, for violators. As this ban is imposed, we asked our growing photo community to show us how plastic waste affects rural India. The photos show the prevalence of plastic waste and the toxic ways in which it affects everyone - humans and animals alike - in the rural ecosystem.
Our heroes – celebrating fatherhood
What does it mean to be a father? The head of the family or part of the parenting team? A loving tutor in life? One who guides but allows mistakes? A playmate at times, a strict paternal figure at others? An inspiration and role model? As Father’s Day approaches Village Square celebrates fatherhood and the many roles of being a dad or granddad in rural India.
June – Photo of the Month
The quality and energy of our readers and supporters when it comes to capturing rural India on camera has overwhelmed us again. Do have a look at these beautiful snaps sent for this Photo of the Month series.
Celebrating India’s favorite beverage – chai
For India, chai is more than just a beverage. Chai and the chai tapris (tea stalls) evoke a bundle of emotions. For this International Tea Day, we are taking you on a chai-tapri tour. To the familiar transparent chai-glasses, aluminum kettles, and the smell of ginger, elaichi, and brewing tea leaves. We bring to you, from tea gardens to the vibrant chai tapris which are also spaces for wonderful conversations.
Shades of motherhood from rural India
For Mother’s Day 2022, Village Square pays tribute to all mothers, who embody unconditional love, compassion, care giving and labor. Their list of tasks is endless and roles undefined. They wear different hats at different times of the day. Sometimes a teacher, other times a sibling, a best friend and a confidant. For this Mother’s Day we are featuring photographs which capture the many, beautiful shades of motherhood from across rural India.
May – Photo of the Month
Our growing community of photographers is continuing to leave our jaws dropped with their stills. What’s particularly heartening is that we are receiving entries from every corner of India. Here are some of the fascinating photos from our Photo of the Month (May 2022) series.
How rural India toils – a glimpse
Rural India does not work 9-5. Villagers do not sit in cubicles tied to their gadgets. For this year’s May Day, otherwise known as Labour Day or International Workers’ Day , we give you a glimpse into how the working class in rural India toils. Thanks to our growing community of photographers across India, we bring you the colorful shades of labour on and off the field.
April – Photo of the Month
We remain stunned by the quality and vitality our readers and supporters have when it comes to capturing rural India on camera. Have a look at the stunning snaps sent to us for our Photo of the Month series.