Where did your journey with photography begin? 

I was born in this city, did my graduation here, so for obvious reasons I was more inclined to document this city. My initial document did start with touristic places in south Mumbai. But with time, I started to explore other unexplored parts of this city. I feel I am embracing this city but I think it's actually the other way round.

How does your culture and heritage play a part in your work?

Honestly, i don’t look to create stories, as you walk through this city, the city itself gives you stories. My feelings for Mumbai are very much hard to narrate. It’s a love and hate relationship. As I started exploring this city, I found interesting places. That’s how I came across ‘Uttan’, a fishing village near to my home.

At the start, it takes time for the people to trust you. But eventually with time and more visits I tried to break that barrier. I have been documenting Uttan for the last 4 years through the festivals, events & daily life.

Photography is such a powerful tool to make new connections, it’s like a door into the lives of strangers, and how with time these strangers can become friends.

I am currently documenting many projects such as Monsoon first, it’s a documentation of the monsoon season in this city. I have been photographing it for the last three years.

Another one is the wedding project. It's a documentation of Indian weddings all over this country for the next 30 years. I’m currently into my 4th year of documenting weddings.  And in the end, all these projects are a part of my overall documentation of this city of Mumbai.

The people, their kindness is one aspect of this I adore. What I love about this city is obviously the people, how it’s an interpolation for multiple cultures. Here you will find people of all religions residing here. That’s how I get the opportunity to witness different festivals and events. I feel blessed to be born here.

Where does your inspiration come from?

I learn from everything and anything. I believe we all have something unique in all of us, that’s something we can learn from others. I get inspired by other photographers, painters, writers, films, books, my friends. There’s no limit to learning process. But mostly I get inspired by my experience. It pushes me to expand my visual literacy.

What advice do you have for other young photographers out there?

Firstly, be open to new ventures, never be boxed. Be very fluid in your practice. Don’t be rigid. Our practice does change with time. It’s natural. Evolution will always be part of us. Just embrace it. Always have hunger to learn.