A powerful visual chronicle of the year gone by has opened its doors to the public in Kochi. The Portfolio 2026 news photo exhibition, organized by the Kochi Photojournalists Forum, is now on display at the bustling High Court Water Metro terminal. This exhibition presents a compelling narrative of the events and emotions that defined 2025, captured through the lenses of working journalists.
A Visual Journey Through 2025
The exhibition serves as a poignant time capsule, featuring nearly 66 photographs taken by 35 photographers from various news organizations across Ernakulam. The collection is a mix of both published and unpublished works, offering diverse and often unseen perspectives on the year. The strategic location ensures that the display is accessible to the large number of commuters using the terminal and pedestrians on the popular Marine Drive walkway.
Inaugurated on Tuesday, the event saw the presence of notable dignitaries. The exhibition was formally opened by K Babu MLA, alongside Ernakulam MP Hibi Eden and MLA TJ Vinod. Other prominent attendees included Deputy Mayor Deepak Joy, Kochi Metro MD Loknath Behera, BJP district president PS Shaiju, forum convener Ratheesh Bhaskar, and treasurer Manu Shelly.
Moments of Emotion and History
The curated images are celebrated for their ability to provoke thought and evoke deep emotion. The exhibition highlights include significant moments of public life, such as scenes from the public homage to former Chief Minister VS Achuthanandan. It also pays tribute to the late cinema stalwart Sreenivasan, featuring glimpses from his life.
Beyond these specific events, the photographs collectively depict the raw spectrum of human experience. Visitors can witness frames capturing triumph, profound loss, and the aftermath of disasters, adding layers of depth and context to the year's narrative. Each image tells a story that goes beyond headlines, focusing on the human element at the core of every news event.
Public Reception and Exhibition Details
The Portfolio 2026 exhibition has been warmly received by the public since its opening. Its timing and location are particularly strategic, as the Marine Drive area is experiencing heavy footfall due to ongoing New Year celebrations and the recent Champions Boat League event held on Tuesday. This ensures maximum visibility and engagement for the photojournalists' work.
The exhibition offers a unique opportunity for citizens to reflect on the year through a journalistic lens. The display will remain open to all visitors until 6 PM on January 1. For those in Kochi, it presents a must-visit cultural and journalistic event, providing a silent yet powerful commentary on the times we live in.
