Indians today are governed by two different ideologies. Their political ideal set in the preamble of the Constitution affirms a life of liberty, equality and fraternity. Their social ideal embodied in their religion denies them.

- Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar

This series offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of India's street vendors. Each photo is a study in simplicity and complexity. In Masala Dabba, a man meticulously measures individual portions of spices from a muddy nook under Kolkata’s Howrah Bridge. In Vermillion, a man’s singular trade is driven by his fervent devotion to the Hindu god Jagannath. In Fruit Chaat, a vendor in Delhi’s Lajpat Nagar Market focuses intently on his craft, seemingly oblivious to the hustle and bustle around him.

These photos capture India in all its contradictions, at a time when it is undergoing rapid social, economic and political transformation. It remains to be seen how the Merchants of India will adapt to the currents of change.

These photos were exhibited at the Brick Lane Gallery in London from May 31 to June 12 2017.