In 2008 photographers Henk Bothof and Martin Bakker published their first photo book, entitledPure India. This book has been out for some time now, but we would still like to share it, not only because it is the work of Henk, but also because the pure and traditional beauty of various tribal peoples and Buddhist monks from India, which is central, is disappearing more and more. In addition, travel presenter Floortje Dessing has written the foreword to the book.
Text: Angelique van Os | Photography: Henk Bothof & Martin Bakker
Wancho man Urunachal- Padresh India 
Apatani woman 
Gadaba woman 
Nocte woman
With Pure India, the photographers create a document of civilizations that may soon no longer be there. Henk said in an interview with Camera Magazine: “The young generations are adopting western customs and the old traditions are fading. In a few years’ time, for example, you will no longer see any Gada women. Yes, in jeans. We hope that our images will keep reminding these people who they were and how beautiful mankind can be with all its different cultures.”
The book Pure India covers images of populations that are close to nature and unfamiliar with Western norms and values. Buddhist monks and tribal members such as the Jat, Rabari, Gadaba and Bonda wear traditional clothing and jewellery. They have been photographed relaxed in their natural environment thanks to good communication with a guide who speaks the language, knows the people and reassures them. This relaxation is what the photos exude.
Nocte woman 
Rabari woman 
Nocte woman 
Lambadi woman
