Daniel Malikyar, an Afghan-born photographer, recalls the day he captured what he considers his best photograph: a young girl in the Wakhan Corridor calmly milking a giant yak. The image, taken in 2019, shows the girl sitting on a small stool, her hands working rhythmically as the yak stands patiently, its massive size contrasting with her delicate frame.
The Setting: Wakhan Corridor
The Wakhan Corridor is a narrow, mountainous region in northeastern Afghanistan, bordered by Tajikistan, Pakistan, and China. It is home to the Wakhi people, who rely on yaks for milk, wool, and transportation. Malikyar, who grew up in Afghanistan but now lives in the United States, returned to his homeland to document the lives of these remote communities.
The Moment Captured
“I was struck by the girl’s composure,” Malikyar told The Guardian. “Yaks are not easy animals to milk; they can be unpredictable. But she handled it with such calm and skill.” The photograph, taken in the soft morning light, emphasizes the bond between the girl and the animal. The yak’s horns curve gracefully, and the girl’s face is serene, focused on her task.
Life in the Corridor
The Wakhan Corridor is one of the most isolated places on Earth. Its inhabitants face harsh winters, limited resources, and little contact with the outside world. Malikyar’s photograph offers a glimpse into their daily routines, where tradition and survival are intertwined. “This image represents a way of life that has existed for centuries,” he said.
Impact and Recognition
The photograph has been widely shared, resonating with audiences who see it as a symbol of peace and resilience in a region often associated with conflict. Malikyar hopes it will draw attention to the beauty and strength of Afghanistan’s diverse cultures. “We often see Afghanistan through the lens of war,” he noted. “But there is so much more to our country.”
Technical Details
Malikyar used a Canon 5D Mark IV with a 24-70mm lens, shooting at f/4 for a shallow depth of field that blurs the background, focusing attention on the girl and the yak. The natural light was key; the sun had just risen, casting a warm glow over the scene.
Broader Context
This photograph is part of a larger series documenting the Wakhi people, which Malikyar has been working on for several years. He plans to publish a book and hopes to exhibit the images internationally. “I want to show the world the dignity and humanity of these communities,” he said.
