Fetching water. Panihari.

Collecting water has traditionally been one of the primary duties of women. In many places they collect water in a round-bottomed, short-necked jar with a wide lip that helps to keep the water from spilling. These containers are carried, often for long distances , on a cloth ring that cushions the head.
These” panihari “or water carriers stoically complete their tasks with such poise, beauty and elegance and my paintings strive to give a voice to them so their lives can be celebrated and their issues highlighted. 
In many cases, collecting water is one activity that women are allowed to leave their house to do. Many women like to collect water because it gives them a chance to socialize with other women. It is no surprise that wells have traditionally been a place where women gathered.