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In this archive story we are meeting an Indian stoneworker in Delhi, India.
Read the background story of this archive photo by the photographer. |
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In the bustling streets of Delhi, amid the constant hum of traffic and the calls of street vendors, an Indian man crouches over a slab of stone, chipping away with practiced precision. His hands, weathered by years of toil, move with a rhythm born of experience, shaping the stone into a piece of the intricate mosaic that will become the foundation of a road or a courtyard. |
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Indian stoneworkers
India's stonemasons, particularly those engaged in paving and stonework, endure some of the harshest working conditions imaginable. The work is physically demanding, often performed under the unrelenting sun, with minimal protective equipment. Many of these workers come from marginalized communities, taking on backbreaking labour for meager wages. Long hours, exposure to dust and the risk of injury are part of their daily reality. Yet, despite these hardships, they carry on, driven by necessity and an ingrained resilience.
How many work as stoneworkers in India?
Estimates vary, but millions of people are involved in the stoneworking industry in India, from traditional artisans to modern industrial workers. However, the exact employment rate is difficult to determine as many work informally.
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The struggles and strength of India's stoneworkers
The sight of the Indian stoneworkers, toiling in the heart of India's cities, is a reminder of the human labour behind the very foundations of modern infrastructure. It is easy to walk over paved roads without a thought for the hands that shaped them. Yet, behind every stone lies a story – a story of resilience, sacrifice and unyielding human spirit. The tools of their trade are simple with chisels, hammers and their own calloused hands. Many of them learn their craft from previous generations, passing down the knowledge of stone cutting and laying from father to son. Despite technological advancements, much of the work remains manual, relying on the experience and dexterity of the workers rather than machinery.
Health risks are ever-present in this line of work. The fine dust from chiseling and cutting settles deep in their lungs, leading to respiratory illnesses such as 'Silicosis'. Without proper masks or ventilation, many workers suffer long-term health complications, often without access to adequate medical care. Additionally, the repetitive strain of lifting and hammering stones results in chronic pain and joint disorders, which they endure without complaint. Yet, in the midst of these challenges, there is a deep sense of pride in their craftsmanship. The roads they pave, the walls they build and the courtyards they create are testaments to their skill and endurance. Every stone they place is a piece of their legacy, a silent but enduring mark on the world around them.
Through Photography, we can shine a light on these unsung artisans, honoring their craft and revealing the stark realities of their existence. In their chiseled stones, one can see not just a piece of pavement, but a lifetime of dedication and struggle. Their stories deserve to be told, not only to document their hardships but to remind us of the unseen labour that shapes our world and by capturing their resilience, we pay tribute to their contributions and acknowledge the sacrifices they make daily. Their labour is not just a means of survival – it is an art form, a testament to the indomitable human spirit that continues to carve meaning from even the hardest of stones.
Being a worker in stone and construction in Delhi
Working in the stone and construction industry in Delhi is both demanding and rewarding. As one of India's largest and most rapidly growing cities, Delhi offers numerous opportunities in the building sector, yet it also presents significant challenges. Workers in this field are involved in various tasks, including stone cutting, masonry, construction of infrastructure and installation of decorative stonework, which are crucial to the city's urban development.
"Stoneworkers often face long hours in physically intense conditions, requiring a blend of strength, skill and precision. The work involves using heavy machinery, manual tools and intricate techniques to shape and place stone materials, which are used in everything from grand monuments to modern buildings"
Despite the hard work, many workers in this sector take great pride in their craft, contributing to the transformation of Delhi's ever-evolving skyline. The job often involves close collaboration with architects, engineers and other skilled labourers, fostering a sense of community and teamwork.
However, the working conditions are not without their struggles. Many stone and construction workers face issues such as low wages, limited job security and exposure to hazardous environments. Efforts to improve working conditions and ensure fair wages continue to be a significant focus, as the workers play an essential role in the city's development. In this industry, resilience is key. Workers show an admirable commitment to their jobs, contributing to the vibrancy and growth of one of the world's most dynamic cities.
The life of a worker in Delhi
Being a worker in Delhi means navigating the fast-paced rhythm of one of the most densely populated cities in the world. For many, the work involves labour-intensive tasks in construction sites, factories or on the streets, often under the harsh sun and amidst constant noise. Workers in Delhi, whether in stone, construction or other sectors, typically come from various parts of India, seeking better opportunities in the capital.
Despite the challenges, many workers remain dedicated to their jobs, balancing long hours with the desire to provide for their families and build a better future. The city's rapid urbanization has led to an ongoing demand for labour, making these workers essential to the city's growth, yet many continue to face issues related to low wages, long working hours and limited access to healthcare and basic services. Still, the spirit of determination runs deep, as workers play a key role in shaping the landscape of Delhi, contributing to both its infrastructure and its ever-evolving identity.
The photographer's Indian portraits
Kristian Bertel's Indian portraits capture the essence of human emotion, culture and resilience, offering a deep dive into the diverse lives of people across India. His photography highlights the richness of India's social fabric, focusing on everyday moments that tell powerful stories. From the rural heartlands to the bustling streets of cities, the photographer's work brings to light the faces of individuals who might otherwise go unnoticed.
"His portraits are not just images – they are windows into the spirit of the people he encounters, showcasing the varied lives and experiences that shape the country. Each photo reflects a unique narrative, offering a sense of dignity and respect to his subjects, which resonates strongly with viewers and fosters a greater understanding of India's vibrant and complex society"
See this video about stoneworkers in India made by Kuntala Lahiri-Dutt.
The photographer's own experience of seeing the Indian stoneworkers in India
"- As a photographer, capturing such moments brings a profound sense of both admiration and sorrow. The raw intensity of their labour speaks volumes about human endurance. I watched as this Indian man, bent with age, continued chiseling the stone with unwavering focus. He wears traditional clothing, a simple 'Dhoti' and 'Kurta', dusted with the fine white powder of stone residue. His frail frame belies his strength, as each strike against the stone echoes his perseverance", the Photographer says.
"- His eyes met mine for a moment – tired but steady. It was a silent exchange, an unspoken acknowledgment of his struggle and dignity and the dust clung to his skin like a second layer, mixing with sweat in the midday heat. Yet, his hands never hesitated. Every movement was deliberate, almost meditative. It made me wonder how many thousands of stones he had laid in his lifetime", the Photographer says again.
Read also: A boy's portrait
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India is a land full of stories. On every street, on every corner and in the many places in India, life is rushing by you as a photographer with millions of stories to be told. In the archive story above, you hopefully had a readable insight in the story that was behind the photo of an Indian stoneworker in Delhi. On this website of Kristian Bertel | Photography you can find numerous travel pictures from the photographer. Stories and moments that tell the travel stories of how the photographer captured the specific scene that you see in the picture. The photographer's images have a story behind them, images that all are taken from around India throughout his photo journeys. The archive stories delve into Kristian's personal archive to reveal never-before-seen, including portraits and landscapes beautifully produced snapshots from various travel assignments. The archive is so-far organized into photo stories, this one included, each brought to life by narrative text and full-color photos. Together, these fascinating stories tell a story about the life in India. India, the motherland to many people around the world, a land of unforgetable travel moments. The archive takes viewers on a spectacular visual journey through some of the most stunning photographs to be found in the photographer's archive collection. The photographer culled the images to reflect the many variations on the universal theme of beauty and everyday life in India. By adding these back stories the photographer's work might immensely enhanced the understanding of the photographs.
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