A dyed lock of hair twisted around a gigantic nose ring symbolises married women in this tiny settlement in the interiors of Kutch, Gujarat.

PHOTO •
Shayoni Mehta
Located in the scorching, sandy banni area, the settlement is isolated from other habitations. It has only a seasonal well, no carpenter, ironsmith or industry.

PHOTO •
Shayoni Mehta
Theirs is a very different existence from that of the urban poor, who see progress but are not a part of it.