Nestled in the north of Madhya Pradesh, on the banks of the river Betwa, Orchha is a small town full of life and history. It was founded in 1531 AD by the Bundela chief, Rudra Pratap Singh, who became the first King of Orchha. Later, it was captured by the imperial forces of the Mughal Army, led by Prince Aurangzeb, in 1635 AD. Orchha is the only place in India, other than Ayodhya, where the Hindu deity Lord Rama is the sole King of the town. It is evident from the fact that even today, the guard of honour is given to Him by the police every day at the famous Ram Raja Temple. This aspect makes Orchha a unique place for devotees of Lord Rama.

My short visit to Orchha was based on a street photography workshop. Even though I had never heard the name of this place before, the moment I stepped on its soil, I got a strong sense of familiarity. The living air was filled with laughter and smell of spices. Storefronts adorned with flowers. One could hear the devotional songs floating from far, which seemed sweeter than any rhythm. All the time I passed through the streets surrounding temples and palaces, I could feel the aching joys of devotees, the innocent mischief of children, and a strong sense of community among people. Ornamented with harmless curiosity and hopeful smiles, they felt like home.

Amidst Orchha’s dynamic chaos, where streets breathe with hurried grace, a marketplace of vibrant souls, and faith’s unwavering, sacred pulse. Kindred spirits, warm and bright, a city’s rush, a traveler’s flight, a visual feast, a riot of hues, I sought a thread, a familiar muse. To weave a pattern, soft and true, a story known, yet ever new. From all the noise, to pluck a tune, turning stones and the runes. To find a rhythm, a steady beat, a story written in the street.