by Debraj Purkayastha
Nestled in the heart of Karbi Anglong, Kakojan village is home to the Karbi community, where women play a pivotal role in shaping both family and society. These women are the backbone of their households, balancing domestic responsibilities, child care, and labor-intensive work in fields and forests.
Karbi women are known for their resilience and hard work. Their daily routine begins at dawn, fetching water, preparing meals, and tending to their homes before heading to the fields or forests to collect firewood, bamboo, and edible plants. Many also engage in traditional weaving, crafting intricate patterns that reflect their rich cultural heritage.
Despite their strength, life in Kakojan village is filled with challenges. Access to healthcare and education remains limited, forcing women to rely on indigenous knowledge for child care and home remedies. Malnutrition and lack of proper medical facilities often put mothers and children at risk. Additionally, the absence of modern infrastructure makes daily chores more demanding, from carrying heavy loads over long distances to working under harsh weather conditions.
Yet, Karbi women continue to uphold their traditions with pride. Their sense of community and solidarity helps them navigate hardships, ensuring that knowledge, values, and customs are passed down through generations. In the face of adversity, they remain symbols of perseverance, nurturing their families and preserving the cultural fabric of their land.
Their story is one of strength, sacrifice, and survival—a testament to the enduring spirit of the Karbi women of Kakojan.
My name is Debraj Purkayastha, and I am a passionate and versatile freelance photographer from Silchar (ASSAM). Specializing in wedding, street, and documentary photography, I have spent years capturing emotions, moments, and untold stories through my lens. Beyond photography, I find creative expression in singing, painting, and acting—each medium adding depth to my artistic vision. My work has been recognized on several prestigious platforms, including Vogue Italia, STREET PHOTOGRAPHY INTERNATIONAL, and APF Magazine. I am proud to be a SIENA 2025 Finalist and an APF Magazine Contrast Theme Winner. Additionally, my work has been featured in 35 Awards, Rroma Street, StreetPhotographyBrazil, Street Macadam, YOOF magazine, SPG gallery and Progressive Street, among others.