When I look at the picture of Homai Vyarawalla photographing the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, I see not one, but two iconic women of their times.
While Indira Gandhi was referred to as the ‘only man in the Cabinet', Homai stands out no less as the sole woman photojournalist among male colleagues. Truly, she was ahead of her times.
When people say photojournalism is a man's job, I do not quite subscribe to that view. It is sadly true though; on the field there are still only a few women in photojournalism .
The modern, 21st century woman, who has joined the army and flies planes, seems to hesitate over a career in photojournalism. Could it be because it is emotionally and physically exhausting? To carry over 10 kg of equipment and cover a riot, a war, a sport or maybe just stand outside the Courts for, say, terrorism-accused Kasab being brought to Court?
Once the reticence gives way, more women will come into the profession, bringing with them their unique perspective on issues.
In Homai's instance, she took up this unconventional profession at a time when women may have seldom stepped out of home. She was recording India's history though her camera when it was uncommon to see a woman's name appear in print. So just being where she was, meant a huge step for not just women but society as well.
And though access may have been simpler then, compared to the present terror-tainted times — Homai had the knack of getting the moment and showing the human side to her celebrity subjects. Be it Jawaharlal Nehru cheekily standing near a signboard at the airport that said photography was strictly prohibited, or of Nehru, again, lighting a cigarette for a woman.
A pioneer in photojournalism with her iconic images of India's independence and the times, she carved her own niche as India's modern woman — inspiring photographers across the gender divide.
The image of her strong, yet elegant stature smartly carrying a heavy and bulky camera fills you with awe. She had charted the path for aspiring young women and men to follow.
I was with my students, who aspire to become photojournalists, when I got the news of Homai's passing. And I felt a sense of loss despite not personally knowing her.
The sentiment was similar for the younger generation, so far removed in time from when Homai carried her camera. One of the students, Twisha Deb, said she always wanted to meet Homai Vyarawala, and would now feel a sense of loss.
Homai has blazed her trail, and it will be for the several young women who step into this seemingly glamorous, but demanding line to continue this legacy.
(The author is a photojournalist and co-founder of the Udaan School of Photography.)