Set in the Chadong Village of Manipur, India, The Sun Came Up is a photo story that documents the aftermath of a devastating event—the complete submergence of the village due to water released from a mega-dam project in 2014. The resilient inhabitants of Chadong, forced to start anew, embarked on a journey of rebuilding their lives in a new settlement located in the Kamjong district of Manipur.

The village rests peacefully amidst a vast and simmering water body, exuding a calm and serene atmosphere. With a modest population of around 600 individuals, the villagers face numerous challenges but continue to embody remarkable warmth and love amidst their struggles. The newly constructed tin-roof houses that dot the slopes of the new village serve as a symbol of their collective efforts to rebuild. The roads, still unpaved, symbolize the long path ahead, yet the villagers embrace their slow-paced way of living, finding solace in their tightknit community.

The Sun Came Up pays tribute to the people of Chadong, highlighting their remarkable kindness, unwavering spirit, and hard work. As a photographer, my aim was to document people and their heartfelt moments during my close friend Worshangphy’s sister’s wedding in the village. On such joyous occasions, the entire community comes together to celebrate. Through my lens, The Sun Came Up is an attempt to offer a glimpse into the community’s daily lives, portraying the strength of human connection and the power of resilience in the face of adversity.