What is it that draws us to photography? For me, it began as a simple love for capturing the streets—wandering through alleys and markets, taking pictures of moments that seemed to hold meaning. Little did I know that these wanderings would turn into something far more profound. That I would use photography as a means to understand the world, and to advocate for the change I wanted to see in society.
Photography began as an escape but soon became a means to reflect on the world around me. Through the lens, I learned to wonder, to connect, and to question. I began understanding relationships, decisions, and the idea of agency—particularly where women were concerned.
Photography leads me to the memory of my mother. Her name was Chanchal, which means ‘lively’ or ‘playful’. A fitting reflection of the vibrant energy she brought into the world. I lost her to cancer when I was five years old. Though I was so young, I’ve always felt connected to her through the relationships I’ve admired: the bond between mother and daughter, siblings, or even aunts and friends. The sense of deep connection and care that women bring to their choices has always resonated with me.
My mother chose to keep me and raise me despite her illness. Her decision continues to resonate with me, especially in my work advocating for reproductive rights at iProbono. It makes me even prouder to work with a women-led organisation. Every woman deserves the right to make her own choices—to travel, adopt, have children, or not have children. These choices are hers alone to make.
As part of the communications team at iProbono, I believe our work is simple yet powerful. Whether it’s advocating for reproductive rights or dismantling the barriers imposed by patriarchy, our work is about more than just legal frameworks. It’s about creating safe spaces where women feel heard, respected, and empowered to shape their own paths.
Earlier this year, iProbono hosted a photo exhibition in Nepal, ‘In Pursuit of a Just Society: A Visual Journey’ . My photographs showcased the organisation’s work, alongside Nepali artist Kripa Joshi’s artwork on reproductive rights. The collaboration brought together visuals that reflected hope, resilience, and the ever-ongoing pursuit of justice, marking a significant milestone in our collective advocacy efforts. It highlighted the power of storytelling through art and photography to connect deeply, amplify voices, and inspire action for a better future.
I feel that the photographs I’ve taken are more than images. They are a glimpse into the lives of the people I’ve encountered through my work. Each photo carries a fragment of their story, and captures their resilience, their courage, and their determination to claim agency over their own lives. These images, to me, are reminders of the importance of dignity and choice and of building a world where everyone feels seen and valued.
What began as a simple curation of images has grown into something deeply personal; something more like a journal of love and hope.
As you view these photographs, I hope you will let the photos speak to you. Let them remind you of the importance of creating spaces where women, and all individuals, can make decisions freely and live with dignity and respect.
*By Richa Oberoi – Communications and Advocacy Manager, iProbono
