About the Image(s)

This image was taken at the Dhankar (meaning goes as fort by the cliff) Gompa in Spiti valley. It was a late winter afternoon, around -11*C with wind typical of this region of the himalayas. The complex is built on a 300 metre high spur overlooking the confluence of the Spiti and Pin Rivers and it dates back to 12th century. In the image the Buddhist monk (lama) is seen standing on the highest roof of the Gompa (monastery). He is holding a jaapmala in his hands which implies he was praying at that time. He stands facing the ice-capped peaks of himgiri, the confluence is at the foothills which can be seen from where the monk was standing. I got the image from a level down from that monk as one can see. For me this moment was a conjecture of old traditions, our trail as a civilisation and the challenges we face. The peaks that once were ice clad for almost 6 months a year, are now scarcely iceclad when the winter is not even over in that region. The two rivers which were visible to the monk share same fate as the mountain peaks overlooking them. Global warming has overwhelmed us with its multifaceted expressions and impacts. The modern world, far from Dhankar, is trying to make a defence against Global warming. We are arguing, protesting and discussing so as to find our way forward with our science and tech advancements. And then there are these people, who are standing face to face with mother nature armed with faith and prayers in the remotest regions of our planet.

Date: 1st April, 2023
Gear and settings: Nikon Z6ii, Nikkor 24-120 f4 @24mm, 1/2500 s, f4, 100 iso, Handheld
Post processing: Adobe lightroom