Laiba, 25

Have you ever met a girl who picks vegetables like it is an exam? Laiba does. In the Sundarpada market she turns each one over, thinks about it, and only then drops it in her jute bag.

That is her way with most things. She is thoughtful and a little quiet, the kind who listens first. At 25, she has spent her whole life right here in Bhubaneswar, so Odia comes first for her, then Hindi and English. Tall and slim, 5'8", she wears her long black hair loose, with a thin gold chain and a tiny pendant.

Her pictures have a slow weekend feel. She stands by the road near Khurda Road under a rail bridge, one hand shading her eyes, a small smile just starting. In the kitchen at home she watches a pot with one eyebrow up, as if the dal owes her an answer.

If you want calm talk with someone who really hears you, Laiba is a good choice. Nayapalli and Chandrasekharpur are the areas she covers. Write to @Bhubaneswarpateek on Telegram with her name, or call us on 9938111222.