Thomas Press
Other Projects
Monks of Dharamshala
During my two visits to Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj, I became increasingly curious about the integration of Tibetan culture in these Indian cities. The presence of the Dalai Lama in McLeod Ganj adds a unique spiritual dimension to the area. My photography project focuses on the monks of Dharamshala, capturing them in various aspects of their lives – praying, socializing, and going about their daily routines. These photographs are a window into the monks' profound devotion and the rich cultural heritage they embody in their everyday lives.
Monuments
Manikarnika
In the heart of Varanasi, Manikarnika Ghat stands as a powerful symbol of life’s transient nature and death’s enduring presence. Known as one of the oldest and most sacred cremation grounds in India, its funeral pyres have been burning without pause for thousands of years. Day and night, the flames consume the mortal, while the Ganges carries away the ashes, creating a striking cycle of endings and continuity.
This series captures the raw, unfiltered reality of Manikarnika—a place where the boundaries between life and death blur into a harmony. Here, death is not mourned but embraced—woven into the rhythm of everyday life with reverence and ritual. The rising smoke, the glowing embers, and the flowing river reflect the duality of existence, where sorrow and serenity coexist.
Orchha
Situated on the banks of the river Betwa, the historic town of Orchha was founded in the 16th century by the chief of the Bundela Rajput, Rudra Pratap. Here, the Betwa River splits into seven channels, also known as the Satdhara. The ancient city seems frozen in time, even to this day, with its many buildings continuing to maintain their original grandeur.
Portraits
Mela The Festival
Har Ki Pauri Ghat
"Har Ki Pauri: A Glimpse into Timeless Devotion" - This project centers around Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar, India. I aimed to capture the timeless spirit and enduring traditions of this revered site. Known for its holy significance along the Ganges River, Har Ki Pauri is a nexus of Hindu worship and culture, drawing devotees for prayer, ritual, and remembrance.
Through my lens, I documented the myriad facets of life at this ghat — from the daily rituals of worshipers to the sacred ceremonies for departed souls. Each photograph in this series aims to encapsulate the deep-rooted spirituality and cultural richness that define Har Ki Pauri, reflecting the unique interaction between the people and their holy river.