I'm not entirely certain I can claim this as a photo essay, maybe more a documentary (again), but at least this collection of images were certainly part of a small project I undertook whilst visiting Kerala, Southern India in November 2014. The intention was that these should be included together.
The location is Fort Kochi. The history of this place is fascinating. I was sad to be there for only 24 hrs, as there was much to see and explore.
One of the areas I found to be particularly interesting was the area where much of the spice trading is done. Small warehouses packed full of pepper, ginger and other assorted spices. I spent an afternoon poking around with my camera (and came away with pockets full of fresh ginger) talking to the traders. I found that even though they were busy (there'd been fresh deliveries received this day) they were all happy (despite appearances!) to discuss with me and to let me take their portraits.
As said, I'm not sure it qualifies as an essay as such but...
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