A photographic exhibition is being held in support of Udaipur-based NGO Seva Mandir until 26 February at a private residence near Hilltop Hotel, Ambavgarh. The exhibition brings together a selection of John Pheasant’s photographs taken in India, including of Seva Mandir’s work, and represents ‘a personal perspective’.

John Pheasant has travelled widely through India and been captivated by its diversity and plurality. He has captured many scenes, from historic edifices to village handpumps, and portraits of its citizens going about their daily lives. The camera has often been a means of making contact and engaging with many people who have then become the photographer’s subjects.

Over the last four years, John has also had the opportunity to witness the work of Seva Mandir, particularly in the rural communities and countryside of southern Rajasthan.

John explains: ‘Much of what the foreigner sees in India is extraordinary: rich in colour, contrasts and contradictions. For Indians, what goes on around them is, of course, normal. So, many visiting the exhibition may not see anything extraordinary but may be intrigued by the images which have captured my imagination and ask why. Perhaps, in some small way, visitors will look again at the India around them. I have also been privileged to witness and record some of the work of Seva Mandir. Whether you are Indian or not, this work and the difference it makes to the lives of many thousands of India’s poorest is indeed extraordinary. My hope is that the section of the exhibition which presents images of this work will inform, enthuse and encourage visitors to support it.’

The venue for exhibition is 1, Swaroop Sagar, Ambavgarh Scheme, Near Hiltop Hotel, Udaipur.