The series takes its name from the survivance theory developed by the writer and scholar Gerald Vizenor in relation to native communities. A cross between survival and resistance, the theory posits the idea that the passing on of symbols, identities and cultures goes beyond mere survival – “it emphasises the dynamic, creative, and affirmative aspects of native existence,” Shashank says. Shashank’s series applies this theory to Varanasi, exploring intergenerational resilience throughout centuries of colonialism, and subsequent displacement and marginalisation.

Shashank’s two-month trip to Varanasi was split into two parts; through the first he uncovered the intricate details of the landscape, and during the second he delved deeper into the narratives of people, and their close-knit communities. On his travels, one of the ceremonies Shashank captured was mundan, the process by which hair is shaved off and sacrificed before prayer – common among practitioners of Hinduism. “Hair is seen as a matter of pride and arrogance, thus it is believed that shaving off one’s hair is a symbol of gratitude and devotion to the Lord,” says Shashank. In one image the photographer captures the ceremony in process. Lit by a warm sun the image shows heads in various stages of shaving, those doing the shaving deep in concentration. On the scene, Shashak says, “the act of sacrificing hair becomes a communal event, reinforcing a sense of unity and shared devotion among the participants.”