Life on the Coast

Capturing the essence of life on the coast, the series of images was captured over a period of nine years, from 2011 to 2020, while on various assignments. The photographs were taken with the intention of documenting the daily routines, traditions, and experiences of the fishermen and other individuals residing along the scenic and culturally rich Malabar Coast. The images offer glimpses into the challenges and triumphs that the coastal communities face on a daily basis, from the risks and uncertainties of fishing to the colorful festivals and cultural events that unite the locals. Through the lens of the camera, the series provides a visual narrative that celebrates the resilience, resourcefulness, and beauty of life on the coast.

THE WEAVERS OF PATAN

The city of Patan is steeped in history and tradition, located alongside the fabled Saraswati river. One of the city's most treasured cultural assets is the Mashru weaving craft, which has been practiced for over 500 years. However, the future of this exquisite handloom technique is uncertain, as it is in danger of disappearing due to a lack of interest and support. Today, the practice is kept alive by a dwindling group of skilled weavers, who are likely to be the last generation to carry on this age-old tradition. The Mashru weaving technique is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Patan, and its preservation is crucial for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.

Travel Series - Akohari

One lazy day during my travels in Uttar Pradesh with a journalist friend, we stumbled upon a charming old village or “gaon” named Akohari.

Life in Akohari revolves around agriculture, with fields of wheat, sugarcane, and mustard painting the landscape in vibrant hues throughout the year. The villagers, known for their warm hospitality, follow age-old customs and rituals, deeply rooted in their agrarian lifestyle. The village resonates with the sounds of children playing, women chatting at communal wells, and men tending to their livestock. It's a place where time seems to slow down, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its tranquil ambiance and reconnect with nature.

Rouka By Sreejith Jeevan

Rouka by Sreejith Jeevan is a brand that celebrates the fusion of traditional Indian textiles with contemporary designs. As a photographer, I have had the privilege of collaborating with Sreejith Jeevan for several years, capturing the essence of his Rouka brand through visual imagery.
Through our work together, I have come to appreciate the attention to detail that Sreejith puts into every design, and the way that he seamlessly blends traditional and modern elements. As a photographer, it has been a pleasure to work with such inspiring designs, and to help bring them to life through my images.

Travel Series - The MahaKumbh

My first photo travel series from the 2012 Maha Kumbhmela is a collection of images that captures the essence of this extraordinary Hindu pilgrimage and festival. The Kumbh Mela is a spectacle of faith, devotion, and spirituality, drawing millions of pilgrims from all over India and the world. The images in my series depict the grandeur of the event, with colorful tents and makeshift ashrams lining the banks of the holy rivers, throngs of devotees taking ritual baths, and sadhus (Hindu ascetics) performing sacred rites and rituals. My photos also showcase the diversity of the crowd, with people from different walks of life and backgrounds coming together in a celebration of faith and devotion. From the vibrant colors of the saris to the solemn faces of the devotees, my photos capture the emotions and energy of this once-in-a-lifetime event that repeats itself once in every 144 years.

Artists

Capturing proper portraits of artists can be a challenging task as they are often hesitant towards being in front of the camera. Similar to my own preference for being behind the camera, many artists tend to be camera-shy. In an effort to document the experiences of artists at various art exhibitions and biennials, this series of images showcases candid shots of artists at work on site.

Art & People

The series of images depict people from diverse backgrounds and ages interacting with various forms of art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations.

Life in Chellanam

Chellanam, despite being a part of Kochi, embraces a unique way of life that may be challenging for city dwellers like myself to comprehend. The primary livelihood here revolves around fishing, and even before Kerala witnessed its first flood in over 95 years, the people of Chellanam faced annual floods. When disaster strikes, they turn to their art: the ancient tradition of Chavittunaadakam. In this small fishing village, makeshift stages emerge, and people earnestly practice this art form under the guidance of local masters known as "aashan." Despite my urban background, Chellanam holds a special place in my heart, as its inhabitants feel more like family than those around me. Their sense of isolation during adversity resonates with me, and those who may initially come across as brusque are, in reality, some of the warmest and most hospitable individuals you could ever meet.

Eye of the Tiger

K.R. Ranesh is a musician based in Fort Kochi - Mattancherry who works as a headload worker on Wellington Island during the day. Despite his day job, he dedicates his evenings to practicing guitar and honing his musical skills.

The Red Gods

Theyyam is a vibrant and colorful form of ritualistic worship that is deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of Kerala, India. This living tradition involves elaborate rituals, music, dance, and vibrant costumes that bring to life the divine spirits being invoked. Each Theyyam performance is unique, featuring different deities, stories, and rituals. The performers, who are typically men from specific communities, undergo rigorous training and preparation before they are allowed to participate in the ritual. Theyyam is not just a form of worship but also a way of preserving the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Kerala.