Women of Odisha

For the tribal women of Odisha, it is a hard life. They are the unheralded worker bees of the tribe’s villages. In their culture, it is a woman’s duty to get married, have children, make a good home, and provide for her family. Their many roles include that of breadwinner; water steward; cook; and washer of child, clothes and hearth.

However, despite the hardships, the women of Odisha take great pride in their lives, have compassion for others, and posess keen senses of humor. Theirs is an undiminished beauty in an unforgiving environment.

As I would start my walk through a village, women would usually come out of their homes to take a timid look at the stranger in their midst. Some would quickly retreat back inside while others would shyly raise their hand in response to my waved hellos from the middle of the dirt road. As my presence was screened and transmitted by the silent messenger system that is the village, more women would come out to say hello and ask my name. As I approached them, inevitably the question was asked as to where I was from; my answer was always met with a smile and approving nod.

It quickly became apparent my female subjects were not use to being seen. They were shy - reticent to be the focus of my camera’s attention. Only when one of their friends stood in front of me and posed would others acquiesce to my motioned queries. After that magical moment, the ladies helped one another smooth unruly hair strands, adjust clothing, and/or straighten the hang of jewelry. Although sometimes encouraged by others, each woman ultimately decided how they wanted to be seen; and what statement they wanted to make for the camera.

Soon, ladies were waiting on self-made lines for a chance to see their image on the back of my camera. Men and children joined what became an impromptu street party as I continued down the road. The cacophony of voices, admiring approvals and laughter grew as my visit continued until everyone had seen and been seen. And then, slowly, thank you’s were given and goodbyes were waved as the women quietly returned to their lives.

After all, there were things to do.