Photography

  Sparkling Dipawali: A Festival  of Lights and Renewal #Diwali #Festival Of Lights The vibrant festival of Dipawali, also known as the "festival of lights," has finally arrived! Celebrated across India and by Indian communities worldwide, Dipawali is a joyous occasion that marks the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. A Story of Triumph in Lights In North India, Dipawali commemorates the triumphant return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshmana after a 14-year exile. Homes are spruced up, often receiving fresh coats of paint, symbolizing a fresh start. On this auspicious day, families don new clothes and light traditional clay oil lamps (diyas) and string lights, illuminating the night sky. The act of lighting diyas signifies the victory of light over darkness, and fireworks add to the celebratory atmosphere. Sweet Traditions and Family Gatherings Diwali is a time for exchanging sweets and gifts with loved ones, strengthening bonds and fos...

  Election Tour Day -1             One of my old journalist friend Shaji M Joseph arrived from South to Ranchi to cover upcoming election scenario in Jharkhand, as he worked as journalist for more than ten years here so he knows well the in and outs of the Jharkhand politics. So who is playing which card and what will be its repercussion he surmises very well and he easily get the pulse of the politics here. So, regarding this I accompanied him and embarked to get the pulse of the voters to some of the constituencies such as Khunti, Torpa, Sisai and some part of Gumla and Kolebera, assembly segments where we met some of the voters and most of them kept their card­­­­­s close to their chest and seldom disclose their choices.             While moving around on highways I found so many police checks barriers that were checking vehicles as after announcement of the election...

  Dhanteras: Ushering in Diwali with Prosperity and Light Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, marks the joyous beginning of the five-day Diwali festival. Celebrated with great enthusiasm in Hindu culture, it's a day dedicated to wealth, prosperity, and good health. A Time for Blessings and New Beginnings The day gets its name from the combination of "Dhan" (wealth) and "Teras" (thirteenth), signifying the thirteenth lunar day of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the Hindu calendar month of Kartika. On Dhanteras, devotees perform puja rituals, reciting traditional mantras to invoke the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, the bestower of wealth and good fortune, and Lord Kubera, the God of wealth and prosperity. Lights, Sweets, and Shopping for Good Luck An additional diya, known as a Yamdeep, is lit outside the home to ward off evil spirits. Families prepare and share delicious sweets like Chana Dal Halwa, Samosas, Anarsa, and Besan Laddoos, symbo...

  A Melbourne Mishap Leads to Tramway Magic! #Melbourne #TravelTales While strolling the vibrant streets of Melbourne, camera in hand, I found myself caught in a delightful drizzle. The wet weather, coupled with my newness to the city and its seasonal quirks, meant I was ill-prepared in strappy sandals, leaving my canvas shoes back at the hotel. Feeling the cold seep into my toes, I was approached by a friendly police officer. As a fellow camera enthusiast, she struck up a conversation, noticing my predicament. Learning about the expansive Melbourne Tramway network – the largest operational urban tram system in the world! – was a fascinating surprise. Spanning 24 routes with over 1,700 stops, it efficiently whisks passengers around the city. Here's the best part for budget travelers and explorers: the FREE tram zone within the Melbourne CBD! Tourists, shoppers, families, and city workers can all hop aboard for a convenient and affordable way to navigate the city center. Outs...

  Unveiling the Gharnai: A Timeless River Journey in Gaya, India #Gharnai #Pritipaksh Mela Have you ever heard of a boat made entirely of clay pitchers? In the ancient city of Gaya, India, a unique tradition thrives - the Gharnai. Imagine a platform built atop a dozen large, tightly bound earthenware pots, gently navigating the Falgu River. This ingenious invention has served as a mode of transport for centuries, perhaps even millennia. Recently, while covering the Pritipaksh Mela, I had the opportunity to experience the magic of the Gharnai firsthand. As we glided across the calm waters of the Falgu, the curious gazes of onlookers added to the charm. It was a slow, serene journey, perfect for capturing photographs and soaking up the local atmosphere. The Gharnai isn't just a vessel; it's a symbol of resilience. During the dry season, when the Falgu River dwindles, these resourceful boatmen employ a "pull and push" technique to navigate the shallow waters. Their...

  A Sleep Story Captured: The Importance of Deep Slumber for Children #Deep SleepMatters #Childhood Development As a photographer, I'm often drawn to the unfiltered expressions of children – their laughter, tears, and even their sleep. During a cultural event in Ranchi, a young boy nestled comfortably in a chair caught my eye. Rather than focus solely on him, I captured a wider scene, including the empty chairs around him, to tell a story through the photograph. His peaceful slumber, oblivious to the world around him, spoke volumes. Children's gestures, in all their forms, are endlessly fascinating. Their moods swing effortlessly, and their uninhibited expressions are a joy to capture. But this peaceful sleep wasn't just a pretty picture. Deep sleep is a vital part of a child's growth and development. It's during this time that their bodies repair and restore themselves, preparing for the next day's adventures. Here's what we know about deep sleep in...

  A Night Disrupted: Understanding and Soothing a Crying Child on Train Journey #Train Travel #Parenting Tips Have you ever been jolted awake on a long-distance train ride by a child's continuous crying? It can be frustrating, especially in a shared sleeper class. But before you curse under your breath, let's take a deep breath and understand that crying is a baby's natural way of communicating their needs. Why Do Babies Cry? Crying is a baby's universal language . They cry to express a variety of feelings and needs, including: Basic Needs: Hunger, thirst, tiredness, discomfort from a wet diaper, or feeling too hot or cold. Emotional Distress: Loneliness, fear, sadness, frustration, or confusion. Pain or Sickness: Babies can't tell us if they're feeling unwell, so crying might be their only way to signal an issue. Helping a Crying Child on the Train While their cries can disrupt others, remember that the parents are...

  The Allure of Train Travel: A Journey Beyond the Destination #TrainTravel #India There's a certain magic to train travel, a feeling that transcends merely getting from point A to point B. It's an experience that unfolds with the rhythmic clatter of the wheels, the ever-changing landscapes passing by your window, and a sense of adventure brewing in the air. On a recent journey, I found myself captivated by the lush greenery as my train snaked through the hills. The panorama was so mesmerizing that I had to capture it with my wide-zoom lens, the slow shutter speed adding a touch of motion blur to evoke the train's movement. Here's what makes train travel so special: Panoramic Vistas: Train routes often traverse breathtaking landscapes – mountains reaching for the sky, valleys cradled in emerald embrace, rivers carving their paths through the land, and coastlines whispering secrets of the sea. Comfort and Relaxation: Modern trains offer comfo...

  The Enduring Light of Tradition: Supporting Handmade Diyas for Diwali 🪔 This Diwali, let's celebrate the festival of lights with a touch of tradition! Many of us remember seeing potters crafting beautiful clay Diyas during Diwali. These handcrafted lamps, made with "blood and sweat" as the passage mentions, held a special significance. However, with the rise of designer and decorative Diyas, these traditional artisans are facing a decline in their livelihood. The Beauty of Tradition While designer Diyas are undeniably attractive, there's something truly special about handmade clay Diyas. They represent not just light, but also the dedication and skill passed down through generations of potters. More than Decoration Diwali is a time to celebrate light and prosperity. According to Hindu tradition, lighting 13 Diyas in different corners of the house brings good fortune. These Diyas, soaked in water for longer life and placed in the South-East or East-North...

  A Spiritual Gem of Kolkata: The Enchanting Dakshineshwar Kali Temple During an assignment in Kolkata, I had the privilege of visiting the magnificent Dakshineshwar Kali Temple. This architectural marvel, sprawling majestically on the banks of the Hooghly River, is not just a place of worship, but a testament to devotion, resilience, and rich history. Built in 1855 by Rani Rashmoni , a remarkable woman who rose from humble beginnings (her parents were fishermen), the temple stands as a symbol of her unwavering faith in Maa Kaali. Despite facing societal challenges due to her caste, Rani Rashmoni became a successful businesswoman, a champion for social reform, and one of Kolkata's greatest philanthropists. The temple's significance extends beyond its architectural beauty. It is deeply intertwined with the lives of two iconic figures of 19th-century Bengal - Ramakrishna Paramhamsa and Maa Sarada Devi . Ramakrishna, the guru of Swami Vivekananda, served as a priest here fo...

  Capturing Love Down Under: A Look at Australian Wedding Photography Have you ever strolled along a picturesque Australian beach and witnessed a wedding ceremony taking place? The soft sand, the sparkling ocean, and a couple embarking on their happily ever after – it's a truly magical scene. Recently, while exploring Nobbies Beach, I came across a wedding photographer capturing these precious moments for a newlywed couple. More Than Just a Saturday Job While many weddings do take place on weekends and holidays, Australian wedding photographers are a dedicated bunch, often taking on projects throughout the week. From capturing the grandeur of monuments to the intricate details of hotel interiors, their talents are diverse. Interestingly, I noticed many female photographers making their mark in this field, specializing in weddings, food photography, and even industrial settings. There's even a local gem – the Newcastle Photography School – nurturing the next generation o...