Download PDF Here Live Encounters Magazine January 2022.
Jaisalmer, Wild and Warm – Guest Editorial, text & photographs by Jill Gocher.
Sitting at the chai stand, with a cup of steaming sweet chai in hand, on the corner of the Jaisalmer market, I watch the passing parade of folk. Many Indians and tribal folk in particular, possess a wonderful dress sense, each portraying their own taste and colour combinations. I was instantly inspired to pull out my camera and start capturing their wild beauty.
The tribal folk and their life in general exude a rawness that comes with desert life and living so close to the elements.
The men are so handsome and rough but they are also gentlemen and I found that even the toughest looking men were basically shy and kind of melted with a smile. If only more people were like that.
The women are used to being a little hidden and they use their dupatta to great advantage pulling it across their face and adjusting it constantly to preserve privacy and avoid confrontation with curious eyes. It’s modest and kind of seductive at the same time.
As the people move from remote villages, to more convenient locations closer to the city, where water and other of life’s necessities are more readily available, they begin to lose their heritage, but fortunately, enough remains for these wonderful folk to keep their identity.
© Jill Gocher
Jill Gocher, a Bali based international photographer, has spent her life exploring and enjoying Asian cultures. Her work has appeared in National Geographic, Time, International Herald Tribune, Asia Spa, Discovery, Silver Kris and many more. Her books – Asia’s legendary Hotels, Periplus, Bali- Island of Light – Marshall Cavendish, Indonesia – Islands of the Imagination. Periplus, Australia – the land down under – Times Editions, Singapore, Indonesia – the last paradise – Times Editions. She has held exhibitions in Singapore, Kathmandu, and Bali. Photojournalist + Media Consultant, AmazonPage: www.amazon.com/author/jillgocher instagram jillgocher