Uttaranchal Woman
Location:
Uttaranchal
December 2004

Photographer:
E.K.Schafhauser


Near the Ashram Haidakban Vishwa Mahadham that is located next to a large riverbed is where this woman lives her village life. She would come to the ashram when lunch was served, looking to receive a portion of food. Each time she was given with respect a plate with food to take home. Her home consisted of clay walls with three coves. Each cove has an opening to the outdoors where she sits and watches neighbors walk by. The thatched weave of her bed could be viewed from the trail that passed by her shelter. She tends her water buffalo that graze out side her abode on the fresh cut branches from trees.

Not knowing each other’s languages still left no boundaries to communication in sign language with smiles and gestures. Her presence gives a sense of endurance.