Mapping Memories

In a freewheeling chat, designer Priya Ahluwalia and photographer Nick Sethi talk about their creative process and the need to innovate.

- UPASANA DAS

An auto whizzes past with 'Good Luck' scrawled on its back. A transwoman smiles as she sits on the edge of a terrace, her long - dupatta trailing off her lap, rhinestoned bangles glistening on her wrist. Designer Priya Ahluwalia took the first photograph while visiting Panipat to explore explore the second-hand market.

Photographer Nick Sethi took the second in India in 2016 and published it in his book Khichdi, a collection of 846 images. In their first meeting, the two creatives discuss referencing India in their work, their creative processes, and avoiding derivativeness in fashion and imagery.

Nick: Hey, how’s it going?

Upasana: Hey, good! Priya, you had a shoot right before this?

Priya: It went well—at least, I think so! Let’s see when the pictures come out. Nick: If it felt good, it’ll look good.

Upasana: It’s interesting how all three of us are in different places—the UK, US, and India—yet navigating far-right landscapes to varying degrees. How does that affect your work?

Nick: It’s probably frustrating to witness things unfold at such a scale, but we’re lucky to be in positions where we have influence, especially online. I try not to dwell on the negatives but look for new ways to connect and improve.

Priya: I feel the same. Some days, I wonder, What’s this all for? Am I adding enough value to society? But when you’re a person of colour or from a marginalised background, just existing is an act of protest.