This week I’m hosting a unique photograph of an Opium Man take by Brian Barry and Noelle Kelly from WanderingOn Blog. I spotted this picture straight away and when I read the tittle I need to know the story behind it ha ha ha It was so intriguing. An Opium man? Meaning a a man selling opium, just like that on the street? Follow this lovely couple on Facebook and Twitter and check some other great pictures on Flickr, and no they do not sell opium, so if that is what you are up for, go to India ha ha ha
Picture Story: Opium Man
We spent six months backpacking through India, an amazing experience by all accounts and a photographers dream. Every time you turn your head there’s something else worth taking a picture of, it’s such an interesting place.
One day while we were touring the Mehrangarh Fort in the city of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, we met this man. Calling himself the ‘opium man’ he worked within the fort grounds.
Most people seemed to just breeze past him but we had to go over and see what his deal was. He showed us the pipes that the Maharajas used to use to smoke opium back in the day and then from his pocket he pulls out some opium to show us! After chatting for a few minutes, we were just about to leave when we thought we’d ask him for a photo and sure enough, no problem!
We’re not sure if he was high or if this is how happy he really is but he cracked this great smile, shining through his white beard. He captures so much of Rajasthan the bright coloured turban, the long white beard and his relaxed nature. This photo will always remind us of travelling through the Rajasthan region and meeting the ‘opium man’!
Hi Brian and Noelle,
I hope before you left and took the picture you went till the end of the experience and did try opium! If you skipped it, I would advise you to go back, find him and do it, it is worth trying…
Btw, nice story and good pic, congrats!
Ha ha ha, whole pan Borisek! :)
What an absolutely beautiful photograph! The twinkle in his eye is just amazing. I love everything about this photo, especially his wonderful smile! Thank you so much for sharing, it put a smile on my face too!
Barbara I’m smiling every single time I open the homepage of my blog! :)
Thanks so much Marysia for choosing our photo for your Friday Lens Affair series. We’re delighted to be included! :)
Brian and Noelle recently posted…Standing on the Equatorial Line and visiting the King’s Palace in Sumatra, Indonesia
Guys it is my pleasure, I really love the Opium Man ha ha ha
Sounds like a plan to us. We like your style.
Thanks guys!
Marysia recently posted…Good Karma Affair: Make A Difference Today With Travel Bloggers Without Borders
Our site’s more about places than people. But you’ve inspired us to feature some portraits in the future. Keep up the great work.
I must admit that I was thinking more about featuring some portraits as well, not only in Friday Lens Affair, I’m still thinking about some series like Met ON the Road or something!
He is adorable!! Beautiful image Marysia, well… I understand it is not yours but since you are hosting him he is sort of under your wings…. LOL
Malin recently posted…Comment on The Address Dubai Marina by blending machine
Ha ha ha Malin, you are so right, I feel very personal about pictures I choose for the series :)