In collaboration with Sapnay, Bollywood dance company, I tried to document how they have retained their cultural identities over the years in the United Kingdom. While they have managed to find a balance between both the Indian and the British culture, they have also connected quite well with the people of the United Kingdom. Mrs.Ash Oberoi says, it is important for people here to hold on tighter to their culture and identity not just of the fear of losing it but also because it has to be passed on to generations to come. "Everyone has the right to know and understand their roots and origin", she adds. Their lovely home is Harrow is a daily reminder of their family and heritage.
Cricket in India is more like a religion than anything else. When I visited their residence, in spite of their long tiring day, I saw the Oberois were never tired to cheer for the India cricket team.
In a city like London, where there are constraints for space, the Oberois felt it was necessary to allot a separate room to place their holy book, Guru Granth Sahib. The room was beautifully decorated as an obvious importance for their religion and culture. The Diwan hall (the place where the holy book is placed) is covered with intricate Indian sequin designs. But looks like even in the holy room, one can't escape the London cold.
The collaboration with Sapnay, Bollywood dance company has taught me the importance of communication for a photographer. The persistent effort to persuade your associate to ideate your thoughts was a challenge I faced. Understanding and personal rapport with the subject makes a lot of difference in the photographer's mind, the subject's mind and as well as in the photograph itself.