Ranvir’s photo-feature bursts with an abundant splash of colours. It is a vibrant portrayal of the life of a dynamic fishing community of Penthakata locality, in Puri district, Orissa. “The distinct houses, the beaches filled with boats, and the activities of the community” inspired Ranvir to capture their lives. Dressed in multi-coloured clothes, the community lives in harmony with the ocean; their source of life, rhythm, and identity. “I hope people notice how beautiful life is for them”, Ranvir says, in admiration of their cheerful spirit. Despite the weight of their daily labour, their joy remains unbound, their hospitality as warm as the tropical sun. “They were so warm and welcoming, and the food tasted even better because of their warmth.” Their curiosity, too, stands out, as one of them was curious about my work and my camera.
Behind this colourful façade lies a life of relentless hard work. Their days begin with the first light, the throwing of nets, the rhythm of waves, the gathering of the catch, and end with the onset of dusk. The fishermen and women stride through their routines with unwavering tenacity, their struggles softened by the hues that surround them.
The vibrant sarees and painted houses reveal more than a hardworking community; they present a romanticised image that hides what might otherwise seem unpleasant. The vivid scenes mask the overwhelming fishy odour one can almost sense from the photographs. The colours bury the smell, transforming it into something beautiful. “There were stories here that people needed to see,” Ranvir reflects.
Through his lens, this documentary uncovers those stories. It reveals a community often overlooked, yet full of radiance, resilience, and humanity. Beneath the colours lies not just beauty, but the vigour of life itself.
