“Kolkata is not a city, it is an emotion.” To capture that emotion, I set about seeing the city as it awakens. In the mornings I witnessed local life unfiltered and close-up - people sleeping, awakening, washing, brushing teeth, shaving, eating and praying. I found people curious, open and friendly - lacking the self-consciousness of Westerners. This curiosity and openness allowed me to comfortably approach and photograph while they moved through their morning routines. I was deeply touched by the kindness of the residents and discovered Kolkata’s undeniable charm and the irresistible appeal.