The spirit of Bathukamma in a frame

Clicking photographs is second nature for Chandrashekhar Singh, the banker (he works in National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development), capturing people, festivals and anything that catches eyes. His fancy is not just a hobby but a passion. Pictures of Bathukamma captured over a period of time by Chandrashekhar are now on display at the Rainbow Art Gallery.

The photographs capture the mood, feelings and the joy of the festival. One picture in particular, of a small girl with a bright smile holding a Bathukamma, says a thousand words. Innocence, joy and elation are caught on camera for posterity. Chandrasekhar took up photography when he was 16 and has taken over five lakh pictures till date. For a person who won the NatGeo Moment Award in 2012, it is surprising that this is his first exhibition. He says, “Many more would soon follow. I am keen on exploring more topics and the quest to experiment would continue.”

Colours, flowers and water form a lovely trio and the photographer has managed to capture all three in ample measure. People walking through a water body with Bathukammas in the evening, with the setting sun and blades of grass, all in one frame signifies the aesthetic mood of the festival and people’s faith.

Pictures of women selling flowers on the streets, at junctions and markets are caught on camera. They make a few rupees by selling flowers picked from nearby woods and open areas. But the innocence and contentment could only be seen and known by looking at the pictures.

Bathukamma is a festival in which women invoke the blessings of various goddesses. Women seek prosperity, health and happiness for their families through songs. There is an air of festivity everywhere in the city and Tank Bund too is brimming with Bathukammas. For those who missed the real action can always make a trip to Paryatak Bhavan for a glimpse of photographs that capture every facet of Bathukamma.