When we think of India, we think curry. We think naan. We think Taj Mahal. Gandhi. Poverty. Aziz Ansari.

It isn’t our fault that we aren’t aware of the components of India’s true colors. As a society, we are rarely exposed to the vibrant culture that sweeps the cities of India. There is beauty and light at the dosa huts of Chennai as there is suffering and pain on the streets of Delhi. From home, we can’t see the glistening light in the eyes of a wise man who believes in the strength of human relationship with God. We can’t see the determination of the young girl performing on a tight-rope every day just to feed her family. We can’t see the tears of a child wishing for her grandmother’s health, and we can’t see the radiance of a woman’s smile as she laughs at the thought of someone wanting to take a photo of her.

In May 2012, Megha Majumder took a simple, low resolution photograph of Aasha, on the beaches of Tarkali, India. Her story of abandonment and survival was accompanied by a 100-watt smile and hopeful eyes.

Having captured the humanity of India and the hearts of hundreds of Facebook users, Humans of India took off with flying colors (Quite literally, if we’re talking about last weeks’ Holi festivities).

For over a year now, 17-year old Megha Majumder, as well as contributors from around the world, have been inspiring the internet with the brutal reality and extraordinary simplicity of India, finding color and brilliance in the most unadorned homes, as well as on the most vivid and animated street corners. There is no better way to peer into the world of India than through the eyes of those who live in it.

The above is only a handful of photos, and even those express how truly breathtaking Humans of India is. Please do go visit the site, and “Like” the page so you can experience a new piece of India every day.

[Image Attributes: Humans of India]