Friday Feature: Faces of India

Who: Women janitors or sweepers
Where: At Amer Fort (Amber Fort), Jaipur, Rajasthan
What: They keep the fort clean of litter that, unfortunately, no-one thinks twice about tossing on the ground. They also keep the toilets clean. They are all women. Most people walk around them and no-one really talks to them. The two that I spoke with were initially very reluctant to engage but one of them warmed up, while the other remained very suspicious of my motives. It's written all over her face. It has to be a hard life.

Sweeper
She had such a sweet smile!

Sweeping
She wouldn't let her guard down

Sweeper
Exhausted, grabbing a quick power nap

8 comments:

Nandini Vishwanath said...

This is my favourite of the series.

Alia said...

I loved Friday Feature!
Im ur new follwer...Keep it up!
Alia
http://aliascreativelife.blogspot.com/

GB said...

I love how you captured it all...love this series!

john k.Tas. said...

dear Manisha, didn't think you could frighten sacred cows, let alone a fellow(?) lady ?! great " Faces ". regards, john k., Tas.

Panfusine said...

Heartwarming Manisha.. Love the way you've captured her expression in the photographs!

Pelicano said...

You've captured the rawness of this life- very thought-provoking.

Bong Mom said...

I assume that for their work they are ok compensated. I like it that they are neatly and adequately dressed for Delhi winter. Is the Fort maintained by India Govt. or a trust ?

Indian Food Rocks said...

Nandini, mine too! I wish I had more featuring women, though.

Alia, welcome and thanks!

GB, I'm glad I am doing this. Not all the pics are great. Some are shot on the run literally but I think they communicate the essence of the aam junta.

John, fellow lady?! You crack me up!

Niv, thanks! Always good to have your feedback!

Pel, I hope so. Thanks!

Bong Mom, what is "ok compensated"? I really don't know. This is in Jaipur, not Delhi. The fort is managed by the State Government of Rajasthan.