Premier Padmini taxis, first introduced to the streets of Mumbai in the 1960s, have now all but disappeared following the introduction of laws to reduce pollution in the city. Locally known as ‘Kaali-Peeli’, there were once more than 60,000 of these iconic black and yellow cabs struggling through the chaos of Mumbai’s streets.
Over a four year period Dougie Wallace documented these elaborate Bollywood disco bars on wheels. The crowded streets of Mumbai and the assortment of passengers provide a dynamic and intense backdrop, as do the cabs themselves. Many are pimped with large speakers in the boot that blast out Bollywood hits, or are colourfully decorated inside with posters of Bollywood actresses, upholstered in loud hypnotic patterns, or feature Hindu gods and goddess on the dashboard.
Over recent years London-based photographer Dougie Wallace has establised an enviable reputation as one of the leading street photographers not just in the UK, but in the World. He is recognised for his expressive social documentary and a distinct and direct style of street photography.
Since 2014 Wallace has published two successful books, Stags, Hens & Bunnies and Shoreditch Wildlife (Hoxton Minipress). These have led to several important exhibitions in Europe, the United States and India where he was recently included in a British Council exhibition in Delhi. He also continues to attract considerable press and media attention for his work and his photographs feature regularly in many leading international publications.
BOOK
Road Wallah
Dougie Wallace
£35.00 large format hardback
96 pages, 65 colour photographs
370mm x 280mm
ISBN: 978-1-907893-85-8
http://www.dewilewis.com
