The other side of women working in rice fields
THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORKING WOMEN OF LOS ARROZALES
Nepal is very famous for being the "Roof of the world", referring to the Himalayas and which are in the north of the country from west to east. But, in addition, in the south of the country, on the border with neighboring India, is the Chitwan National Park. Breaking stereotypes, in this region of large wetlands and flat jungle of highly diversified flora; They inhabit rhinos, elephants, crocodiles, the bengal tiger, although difficult to be seen, as well as a great variety of birds. In fact, as one entered the Madi Valley, he would meet the military who closed the passage at night to protect the animals from poachers. In the 50s the government allowed the Pokhara Brahmins to move to Chitwan because of the problems they were suffering from the poor harvest of recent years. Once installed, they cleared the jungle and began to cultivate the land, however many died of malaria until in the 60s, the valley was sprayed with DDT. The natives of this valley are called Tharu. They have their own traditions, language and culture. It seems they have become immune to malaria. Another cause of frequent death is the attacks of wild animals. Even today it is a problem, just to give an example, lately there has been a crazed elephant called Durbha Hatti, which has killed many people.To protect against wild animals, such as elephants, rhinos, or tigers, each town has to build watchtowers for protection. About 12 years ago, these villages managed to build a new road, which facilitated communication between various areas. You could say that little by little, thanks to these advances, your life becomes easier and safer. My photographs are a small tribute to the arduous task of local women in the Chitwan area, who work from early hours of the day until late at night in these rice fields. Thanks to them, the collection and sale of rice in nearby villages and markets, entire families are maintained.
This series was captured at noon in a few minutes in the same paddy field. Recreating hues and reflection
in the water that made me unable to resist flipping the images.
