Some conversations quietly change the course of your life!

A few years ago, what began as a conversation with Hage Duyu slowly grew into a shared dream. There wasn’t a clear roadmap, only a belief that the story of the Apatani community deserved to be documented with honesty, care, and respect. That conversation eventually found its way into these pages.

Today, I’m incredibly happy to share The Apatanis.

This book is the result of years of returning to Ziro Valley, countless conversations, friendships, and the generosity of a community that welcomed me into their lives. Every visit deepened my understanding, not just of their traditions, but of the quiet rhythms that shape everyday life.
Holding the first printed copy was a moment I’ll never forget. Excitement. Nervousness. Relief. And then… silence, as I slowly turned the pages, breathing in the unmistakable smell of fresh ink. It was then that the journey truly felt real.

This book belongs to everyone who believed in the idea from the very beginning. My heartfelt gratitude to Hage Duyu, the Oley Allo Foundation, the Apatani community, community elders, friends, collaborators, designers, printers, and everyone whose time, trust, and encouragement made this possible.

I hope The Apatanis becomes more than a collection of photographs. I hope it encourages curiosity, sparks conversations, and celebrates the living heritage of one of India’s most remarkable indigenous communities.

Here’s to stories that deserve to be remembered.