Daijiworld Media Network - Moodbidri
Moodbidri, Aug 23: "While creativity, innovation, specialisation, enthusiasm, and publicity are all essential in a profession, humanity should always take precedence," said Walter Nandalike, managing director of Daijiworld.
He was speaking after inaugurating 'Bandhavya 2026', a programme organised by the South Kanara Photographers Association (SKPA), Moodbidri zone, to mark World Photography Day at the Kalpavriksha auditorium on Wednesday.
Recalling the tragic story of photojournalist Kevin Carter, who won a Pulitzer Prize for his iconic photograph of a starving child and a vulture during the Sudan famine, Nandalike said, "Carter captured the image but failed to help the child. When he later realised his mistake, it was too late."
He urged photographers to prioritise humanity, their families, and their own health alongside their professional pursuits. He also highlighted the indispensable role photographers play in the growth and success of journalists.
Nithin Beluvayi, president of the SKPA Moodbidri zone, presided over the function. He advised photographers to embrace new technology and continuously upgrade their skills to stay relevant in the profession. "Learning should be a continuous process," he added.
During the event, senior photographer Gunapala of Kalyani Studio, Kuppepadavu, was honoured with the 'Chhaya Bhushan' award.
District 'Chhaya Rathna' awardee B Abhayakumar, newly married members, those who had expanded their businesses, and individuals recognised for their social work were also felicitated.
Prizes were distributed to the winners of the photography competition held on the occasion of Independence Day. Ravi Kotian bagged the first prize, while Mithun Poojary and Pradeep Kumar Nellikaru secured the second and third places, respectively.
The event featured a lecture on environmental conservation by Sammilan Shetty from Beluvayi, followed by the distribution of saplings. An exhibition of vintage cameras and various competitions for photographers and their families were also organised.
Prasad Beluvayi read out the citation. A scholarship was awarded to Suyog, a student from a photographer's family, and financial assistance for medical treatment was handed over to Dinesh.
District vice-president Devaraja Shetty, district secretary Ajay Kumar, district organising secretary Ravi S Kotian, zonal honorary president Uday Kumar Bhat, vice-president Ranjith Kotian, and treasurer Padmanabha Mijar were present.
District building committee member Wilfred Mendonca delivered the introductory remarks and welcomed the gathering. Zonal secretary Namith proposed the vote of thanks, and Sandeep Shetty Rayi compered the programme.