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

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Travel
Wings of Peace

In this vibrant street scene, an auto-rickshaw driver takes a quiet moment to feed a large flock of pigeons on the roadside. His extended arm, emerging from the colorful rickshaw labeled "Queen" and "King," scatters grains mid-air as pigeons flock eagerly around. The bustling street behind reflects an everyday moment in India, where tradition meets the pace of modern life. The act of feeding pigeons holds cultural significance, symbolizing a way to invite peace, prosperity, and mental clarity. This serene interaction amidst the chaos of urban life hints at the simple yet profound gestures that bring harmony, both within and outside ourselves.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 12.2023
Date Uploaded: 11.2024
Photo Location: Kolkata, India
Camera: NIKON D750
Copyright: © Debashis Mukherjee