Shyamal Dutta skillfully captures vast and remote realities where nature and lifestyles are still enduringly untouched. With deeply-compelling narratives of chores and traditional living, these images, technically and compositionally, stand as studies in anthropological history as well as ethnic vignettes. Keys from the past are tied and choreographed into a scene of choral harmonies in colour. By Uma Nair
As early evening draws near, a young Chang Naga tribal couple enjoy the warmth of the traditional hearth of their home. Location: Tuensang Village, Tuensang District, Nagaland. Date: May 2018
A Singpho tribal woman aged about a hundred years, by rough estimates of the community elders, agrees to pose for the camera after an extended bonding and interaction. The Singpho tribes live in Upper Assam.
Location: Near Margherita, Tinsukia district, Assam.
Date: February 2014
Shadows and light dance around an elderly Angami lady separating rice from its husk at the entrance foyer of her traditional humble home. A silent choreography is created by the giant bamboo and cane baskets used to store rice harvested from her family paddy fields for consumption throughout the year.
Location: Kidima Village, Kohima District, Nagaland.
Date: April 2018
A female Indian rhino and her baby cuddle up during monsoon flooding, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Location: Kaziranga National Park, Assam.
Date: August 2014
This image shows a Monpa tribal family holding charming conversations. The mother is amused at her son chiding the family sheep. Location: Thembang village, Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh. Date: October 2014