Sundar Photography

Bhuleshwar is one of those places that reminds me why I keep returning to photography.

From the outside, it appears modest—almost like a fort rather than a 13th-century temple. Step inside, and you’re greeted by a world carved from stone. Every pillar, wall and ceiling is filled with intricate sculptures, stories from the epics, dancers, animals and divine figures.

What fascinates me most is the craftsmanship. The black basalt used here differs from the surrounding stone, raising questions about how it was transported and why such immense effort was invested in building a temple atop a hill more than 700 years ago.

The temple also holds unique legends, including a rare depiction of Ganesha in female form, featured in one of these images.

I’ve visited Bhuleshwar in different seasons and never tire of photographing it. The interplay of light, symmetry and detail reveals something new every time.

Yet admiration is accompanied by a question. Many sculptures show signs of deliberate damage. Faces and limbs have been broken. What stories were lost? And how could anyone destroy something so beautiful?

Bhuleshwar remains one of Maharashtra’s lesser-known treasures. A reminder that the most extraordinary places often hide behind the simplest exteriors.

Part 2 coming soon.

Women of the Kumbh.
One of the strongest impressions I carried back from the Kumbh Mela was the presence of women. Not at the margins, but woven into every aspect of the gathering — as pilgrims, seekers, organizers, devotees, ascetics, mothers, teachers, and participants in the spiritual life of the event.
The role of women in India’s spiritual traditions is far older and deeper than many modern narratives suggest. Ancient Indian thought, mythology, Bhakti movements, Sangam-era traditions, and goddess worship all carry strong representations of feminine spiritual power. Indian literature itself contains references to mother-goddess traditions and the sacred feminine as a central force in society and worship.
At the same time, history was not always equal. Many scholars note that women ascetics and spiritual practitioners often remained less visible despite their contributions, existing alongside social structures that limited their recognition.
Standing in the Kumbh, however, it was impossible not to notice the scale of women’s participation. They came not only in devotion, but with agency and purpose. The gathering felt like a reminder that spirituality in India has never belonged to one gender alone. It has always been carried collectively.
These three images are not grand moments. They are active moments — women moving through the Kumbh in their own way, carrying faith, presence, and continuity.

Ranjeshwar Temple

Around 20 km off the Pune–Satara highway, near Khed Shivapur, lies the quiet village temple of Ranjeshwar. Reached through descending stone steps from a narrow village lane, the temple carries both historical and architectural significance that immediately stands out when you spend time observing it closely.
From what I read, the temple dates back to the Yadava dynasty period and was likely renovated during the Maratha era. Like many temples in Maharashtra, it is not just a place of worship but also a record of social, cultural, and engineering thought from its time.

One historical reference associated with this region connects to a young Shivaji Maharaj — a moment often cited as one of the earliest examples of his sense of justice and leadership. It is said that as a teenager, he punished a local leader accused of assaulting a woman after the matter was brought before him. Whether viewed historically or symbolically, the story reflects values that later shaped his image as a ruler focused on justice and dignity.

Architecturally, the temple complex is equally fascinating. Beneath ground level are interconnected water tanks used for rituals, bathing, and daily utility. The overflow system was designed to direct excess water toward nearby paddy fields south of the temple — a remarkably thoughtful and sustainable approach for its time. It reflects how architecture then was often designed not only for function and spirituality, but also for community use and environmental balance.

This is a long photo series because I wanted to present the temple as an experience rather than a single frame. The images move from the entrance and stone pathways to the lives of the gurus who conduct the daily pooja. Both priests were soft-spoken, respectful, and deeply immersed in their routine. There are also moments of devotees, details of the water tanks used for rituals, and the smaller Shiva shrine beside the main temple.

It was a quiet Saturday morning, well spent.

Series 2
Big beautiful Sunrise at Kalpa, Kinnaur, Spiti.
It was spectacular and great arrangements made by@indianphototours and sir.
The landscape kept changing continuously and sun peaking through the clouds. Memorable morning.