21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
THE MAN ON RICKSHAW

In the bustling streets of Kolkata, where life flows at a vibrant pace, there's a scene that encapsulates the essence of this city's daily life. An elderly man, perhaps in his early 70s, sits comfortably on a rickshaw. The man's weathered face tells a story of a lifetime of experiences and wisdom. As the rickshaw moves slowly through the market stalls, the old man is not burdened by the task of selecting his vegetables. Instead, a diligent rickshaw puller, strong and agile, is taking on the responsibility. He is more than a mere rickshaw puller; he has become an indispensable part of the old man's life. The rickshaw puller knows the old man's preferences well, choosing the freshest vegetables with care and precision. The old man and the rickshaw puller share a unique bond that goes beyond the transactional. It's a testament to the warmth and interconnectedness of Kolkata, where relationships often transcend social and economic barriers. As the rickshaw moves on through the market, the old man watches the world go by with a sense of contentment. His trust in the rickshaw puller and the unspoken understanding between them make this daily ritual a heartwarming illustration of the human connections that thrive in the midst of the lively chaos of Kolkata's bustling streets.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 05.2022
Date Uploaded: 11.2023
Photo Location: Kolkata, India
Camera: NIKON D750
Copyright: © Debashis Mukherjee