Villagers in Uttarkashi believe that the collapse of the Silkyara-Polgaon tunnel, trapping 41 workers, is due to the destruction of a temple dedicated to the local deity Baukhnaag Devta. They believe that unless the deity is pacified, rescue efforts will not be successful.

For many, it may come as a surprise to learn that for tunnelers and miners around the world TODAY small shrines ( to the local Gods ) are universally built - and miners ( tunnelers) take a moment to reflect on the perils and grace of a safe return to the surface.

I have taken images from India, Qatar, and Australia of these universally constructed " shrines".

I bow before the temple in India because it is an acknowledgment of my frailty and inconsequence - and my desire to return safely to the surface.
Here in India I also ask for guidance on how to find a way out for 41 trapped hardworking men who have not been harmed. It's time these men were released so they can go home.