The day is observed on August 19 annually, when photography lovers, pros, and novices from all parts of the world get together to click away and share. It’s that one special day dedicated to capturing moments and freezing them through a lens forever. In India—a land abound in culture, diversity, and life at its most vibrant—photography becomes an important medium for narrating stories for the times beyond time.
The Indian Legacy in Photography
India’s association with photography dates as far back as the 19th century. The earliest Indians among the first recognized photographers were Raja Deen Dayal. His magnificent work captured the essence of Indian culture, architecture, and royal heritage. Since then, Indian photographers have kept adding to the world scenario of photography, bringing attention to the country’s landscapes, festivals, and life in general.
From the iconic portraits of Mahatma Gandhi to mesmerizing shots of the Taj Mahal at dawn, photography assumes the character—not only an art but a tool for powerful expression in India. Be it capturing on film the chaos of Mumbai’s streets or the serenity of the backwaters of Kerala, or the might of the Himalayas, photography has allowed the world to view India through myriad lenses.
The Evolution of Photography in India
Nowadays, digital technology has made photography very accessible to the common man. Equipped with advanced cameras, smartphones turned millions of Indians into photographers who could share their unique perspective on social media. From professional to amateur photographers, everybody can capture every moment they like and share it with the world.
In a multifaceted and multilingual country like India, photography acts as a bridge across this chasm of cultures, traditions, and languages. It is sensitive to emotions and addresses social issues and memories that otherwise are slated for oblivion. Today, with changing times, photography has ceased to be merely confined to studios or professionals. It is a medium of expression with anyone possessing a camera.
World Photography Day 2024 Theme: “Understanding the World Through Images
This year’s theme, “Understanding the World Through Images,” resonated deeply with Indian photographers who have used their cameras to raise awareness about various social issues, environmental challenges, and cultural shifts. From documenting the lives of farmers in rural India and drawing attention toward climate change in the Sundarbans to the resilience of healthcare workers through the COVID-19 pandemic, Indian photographers are known for constantly pushing the limits to bring about change through their pictures.
Celebrating Photography Across India
Across the country, World Photography Day is celebrated through exhibitions, workshops, and photo walks. From art galleries in Delhi to street photography walks in Kolkata, there is no shortage of activities celebrating this beautiful art. Such events bring together professional photographers and amateur enthusiasts alike, allowing them the opportunity to learn, share, and collaborate.
Institutes like the National Institute of Design and the Indian Institute of Photography will have much to contribute toward grooming the next generation of Indian photographers. Coupled with this number of online portals, it has become much easier to learn the art of photography, thus continuing to create world-class photographers in India.
A Personal Reflection Through the Lens
World Photography Day doesn’t just celebrate the technicality of photography; it is also a personal reflective day. It reflects on all the photos clicked, memories captured, and stories told through clicking cameras. It reminds us that every picture we take is a part of history—in a moment which will never occur again.
In a world full of change, photography enables humankind to freeze, think back, and recognize the beauty that life has placed around us. It reminds us that in humanity, there is emotion; one picture can provoke, inspire change, and create thought.
As India evolves, so does the relationship with photography. The classic film cameras to the latest digital inventions find photography remaining an important part of Indian culture, and on World Photography Day, it celebrates the timeless, universal art form that helps knit the world together—a click at a time.
