Vadodara witnessed a vibrant celebration of Kerala's natural beauty and cultural richness as Kerala Tourism officially launched its nationwide photo exhibition, titled 'Lenscape Kerala', in the city on Tuesday. This immersive visual journey, which opened at The Distillery in Alembic City, aims to present the southern state as a multifaceted experiential tourism destination through the lenses of acclaimed photographers.
Exhibition Inauguration and Highlights
The exhibition was inaugurated by Vadodara Collector and District Magistrate Anil Dhameliya, who highlighted the significance of such cultural initiatives. "Gujaratis are among the country's most enthusiastic travellers," Dhameliya remarked. "While many may have visited Kerala, this exhibition offers a fresh and profound perspective on its people, rural and tribal communities, wildlife, and cultural diversity." Following the inauguration, curator Uma Nair conducted an insightful walkthrough for attendees, delving into the artistic and thematic nuances of the displayed works.
Curatorial Vision and Photographic Journey
Curated by eminent art critic Uma Nair, with wildlife photographer Balan Madhavan serving as the director of photography, 'Lenscape Kerala' features 100 meticulously selected photographs captured by 10 leading travel and media photographers from across India. Each photographer embarked on an extensive five-day journey across Kerala, exploring and documenting a wide array of themes, including:
- Coastal life and serene backwaters
- Architectural marvels and heritage sites
- Vibrant festivals and traditional celebrations
- Rural lifestyles and tribal communities
- Lush forests, rolling hills, and diverse wildlife
- Spiritual sanctuaries and places of worship
Special Features and Educational Initiatives
As part of the inauguration, a four-minute behind-the-scenes film titled "Frame Within A Frame" was screened, offering a glimpse into the creative process behind the exhibition. Additionally, to foster photographic talent, the participating photographers will conduct a masterclass for aspiring photographers on January 28, starting at 2 PM. This educational session promises to provide valuable insights and techniques from industry experts.
Official Statements and Tourism Promotion
In a special message, Kerala Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas emphasized the exhibition's role in celebrating the state's cultural pluralism. "'Lenscape Kerala' not only highlights our rich heritage but also guides travellers towards experiencing Kerala's forests, hills, backwaters, festivals, and spiritual sites, positioning the state as a premier destination for immersive and experiential tourism," Riyas stated. The exhibition serves as a strategic initiative to attract tourists by showcasing Kerala's unique blend of natural splendor and cultural vibrancy.
Exhibition Schedule and Future Stops
After a successful four-day run in New Delhi from January 20, the exhibition's Vadodara leg will continue until Thursday. Following its conclusion in the city, 'Lenscape Kerala' is set to travel to several major Indian cities, including:
- Ahmedabad
- Mumbai
- Pune
- Bengaluru
- Chennai
- Hyderabad
- Kolkata
- Surat
The nationwide tour is scheduled to conclude on March 31, allowing audiences across the country to engage with Kerala's captivating visuals and stories.
This exhibition underscores Kerala Tourism's commitment to promoting the state through innovative and artistic mediums, inviting travellers to explore beyond conventional tourist spots and discover the deeper essence of 'God's Own Country'.
