Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
Balancing Act

Amidst the tranquility of the Indian countryside, a poignant scene unfolds. A woman, dressed in a vibrant sari, gracefully carries a balti of water on her head as she walks along a seemingly endless dirt road. The weight of the water is balanced with the weight of tradition, a testament to the strength, resilience, and daily commitment that millions of women in rural India embody. Surrounded by lush trees, she walks away from us, her journey disappearing down the path less traveled. This image captures not just her physical journey but also the invisible burdens she carries, symbolizing the determination, dignity, and grace that define her life. It serves as a reminder of the often unseen heroines whose everyday sacrifices sustain their families and communities.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 12.2022
Date Uploaded: 10.2023
Photo Location: Kolar, India
Camera: iPhone 12 Pro
Copyright: © Sonia Singhvi