Best known for his fascinating image of an Afghani woman with striking green eyes, Steve McCurry’s photography has been described as “the most evocative colour photography”. During the eighties he spent time in India photographing train stations, creating a visual narrative of day to day activities and capturing his unique perspective in this fascinating personal account. We’re delighted that Steve McCurry has granted us permission to share this breathtaking photography.

Steve says, “when the train pulls into the station there is a mad dash of humanity.  People push through the doors and climb through windows to capture an elusive seat to avoid the punishment of standing for an entire trip.” The effect is a collection of photographs which, though sometimes sad, are always thought provoking.

Bicycles on the side of the train, 1983

Yangon-Mandalay Line, 2011

At a glance, modern India on a unusually serene day.

Old Delhi, 1983

The colour red is bold and powerful in this image.

Bengali woman and child, 1982

Tickletless travel is social evil. Discuss

Simla, 1984

It’s nice to know that trains are used for more than one thing.

Man bathing at train station, 1984

The golden hue of the sun provides a heavenly atmosphere.

Train station, 1983

“People endlessly wait, they camp out in the stations, and many call it home.”

The Assam Mail, 1983

A different culture, the same theme. This photograph of a geisha in a subway was taken in Japan.

Geisha in Subway, 2007

There is an exhibition of Steve McCurry’s work ‘A life in pictures-photographic exhibition’ at the Ljubljana Castle in Slovenia, 30th April 2012- 17th June 2012.

Title image Taj and Train, 1983. All images reproduced with thanks by Steve McCurry, all rights reserved 2012.