Beggars in black face paint and ornate clothing ask commuters for alms in Hauz Khas, in Delhi

From the archive record

Beggars are seen asking commuters for alms on a street in Hauz Khas, New Delhi. In the foreground, their faces are completely covered in smooth black face paint, with a red stripe painted across the eyes and nose. They wear black robes or kurtas decorated with elaborate gold and red ornamental garlands, along with reddish-brown turbans and multiple wristbands. Another person seated behind them wears similar black clothing, face paint and a red head covering.