A new show by Prashant Panjiar amplifies his continual engagement with the theme of migration.

He explores the underbelly of India’s faulty development claims, and reminds us of the unprivileged classes by stating, “It (development) becomes exclusive if it’s good for me, or else nothing really matters.” He brings us closer to ground realities amidst India’s tall claims of development. The artist portrays the sense of dignity the underprivileged class exhibits irrespective of a deprived background and adversities faced.

The acclaimed photographer launched his career with a portfolio of industrial shots in Pune. He joined journalism in 1984, and covered many significant events as part of his photographic assignments. Apart from having served on the World Press Photo Awards jury, he has undertaken several photographic projects revolving around sensitive social issues. He has edited a book from Dorling Kindersley and Penguin India, entitled ‘India – The Definitive Image’.

Apart from a series of solos, the celebrated photographer has featured in several group shows like ‘Click - contemporary Photography in India’, Vadehra gallery, Delhi and Grosvenor Vadehra, London (2008), and ‘India – a Celebration of Independence’ in Philadelphia, London, Delhi and Mumbai (1997), among others.

‘Pan India – a shared habitat’ amplifies his continual engagement with the theme of migration. He has focused on the lives of construction workers who crisscross the country in search of work. In major metros, one hears a voice of concern over lack of infrastructure, but that’s not the case with second and third-tier cities where civic concerns receive no attention, he observes.