Jayesh Surendran ARPS

About my Distinction

The RPS distinction journey has provided profound learning. It has taught me how to capture moments, master technical aspects such as composition and lighting, and how to post-process photos. This journey has implanted in me a strong appreciation for the power of storytelling through the lens and having a personal viewpoint on the world.

Distinction was obtained on: 15 November 2023

Kodungallur Bharani

The unique cultural phenomena of Kodungallur Bharani shows the blending of tradition and spirituality in an extraordinary manner. This celebration, held annually at the historic Kavu Bhagavathy Village, Kerala, promises to be a feast for the senses, with its fiery rituals, frenzied beats of percussion, and colourful processions. Devotees are seen dressed in red and carrying traditional weapons. The festival signifies the unity of people who come together to observe age old traditions. Here, oracles participate in ancient rites, decorating themselves with turmeric and becoming conduits for divine messages; turmeric is thought to have protective qualities. The act of piercing their foreheads when in trance-like states causes blood to flow down their faces. People here transform into living deities, wearing elaborate costumes of gods and goddesses, embodying the divine essence. The experience of documenting the Kavu Bhagavathy ritual was overwhelming.