In this photograph, I capture the grandeur and spiritual energy of the Rath Yatra, but from a unique angle that offers a fresh perspective. Rather than focusing solely on the expressions of the devotees, my image hones in on the intricate details— of the chariot and the sea of the devotees, and the movement of the chariot wheels. Through this lens, the Rath Yatra becomes more than just a festival; it’s a shared journey of faith, seen from a personal, intimate viewpoint.

This photograph captures a powerful moment during Rath Yatra, where tradition and urgency intersect. As the grand chariot procession advances, an ambulance navigates through the crowd, embodying the theme of perspective. The image juxtaposes the vibrant, time-honored celebration with the pressing need for modern-day rescue and care. The chariot represents faith and culture, while the ambulance symbolizes hope and humanity, each playing a vital role in the fabric of our society. This image highlights the delicate balance between preserving traditions and responding to the immediate needs of people, offering a unique perspective on the harmony between the past and the present.

Pandharpur Wari or Wari is a yatra to Pandharpur, Maharashtra, to honor Vithoba. It involves carrying the paduka of a saint in a palki, most notably of Dnyaneshwar and Tukaram, from their respective shrines to Pandharpur. Many pilgrims join this procession on foot. Warkari is a Marathi term which means “one who performs the wari”. The tradition is more than 700 to 800 years old.