In pictures: a monsoon that arrived late and stayed long

This year's monsoon kept everyone guessing. It arrived late in many regions, paused for weeks in others, and then returned with heavy spells well into the autumn.

For farmers, the late rains brought relief to reservoirs and a second chance for sowing. For cities, they brought flooded underpasses, cancelled classes and long evenings at bus stops. Our photographers followed the season from village ponds to city skylines.

Scroll through the gallery for eight moments from the rains. To understand what the end of the season means, read our explainer on monsoon withdrawal.