History and culture in stills

Watch the tribes of Africa and documentation of architecture and its relationship with nature come alive in photographer Rahul DesHpande's latest works

Exploring different avenues, traversing beyond geographic borders, and restoring hope and raising discussions on recyclable architecture and conservation are a few aspects that attract Rahul Deshpande.

His latest collection called Kenya Unplugged and Detritus are on exhibition in the city, as he shares his journey and experience with us.u00a0

When and why did you take interest in photography?
Around 2002. It started when I loaded a roll of film in dad's old camera and nothing came out cause I had not loaded it properly. So I looked up the technique on the Internet and found dozens of photography resources. And the journey began.

Talking about Kenya Unplugged, could you share your experiences of Africa. Any specific reason why you chose Kenya as your theme?
I went with the intention of spending time on the safari circuit and then relax on Mombasa's beaches. After the snorkeling and jet skiing, I wandered around neighbouring villages and met some amazing and warm people. I spent time absorbing their culture, observing their way of life and participating in rituals and sharing meals. Kenya Unplugged is the result of these interactions.

What message do you want to deliver through your pictures taken in Africa?
That language is no bar, a smile and a friendly gesture works wonders. It also pays to wander off the beaten path, to take some risks and open yourself up to the possibility of new experiences.

You met many tribes there. How did it feel to be a part of their celebrations?
It was an honour to be allowed to enter their community and share their food and customs. To be allowed the privilege of playing with their children was a special treat.
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Detritus is the emphasis laid on architecture and nature?
It's about nature reclaiming what mankind appropriated, all in the name of progress. Looking at those ruins, I wondered if a cement and concrete structure would look as appealing in its twilight years. If we are to sustain ourselves on this planet, we have to take a hard look at how we are using its natural resources.

Can you tell me more about your role in Rare Earth Media?
Rare Earth Media is a project, which involves the documentation and photography of arts, crafts, and vocations that are soon fading from this world. I believe the most insidious form of extinction is one of culture and craft. I have been thinking about how to go about this and one of the ways could be some form of experiential tourism, where people spend a good amount of time with people practicing dying arts/crafts. The hope is that the arts/crafts will live on through stories and photographs, even if they are impractical in this day and age.

You are also a member of a music band. What genre of music do you play? Who are your favourite bands or musician?
I'm the vocalist and rhythm guitar player for NH4, which plays classic rock and roll, with healthy servings of progressive rock and metal. My favourite bands are Dream Theater, Symphony X, Rush and Porcupine Tree.

You have also captured many bands playing live. Any Bangalore bands' that make up your list?
Actually, I specialise in promotional photography for bands in Pune and Mumbai, but I don't restrict myself to just that. I have photographed live concerts of Thermal and a Quarter, Ministry of Blues and Motherjane.
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You have travelled extensively. Any particular place you really liked?
New York city is probably my most favourite place to photograph, because of the people and myriad cultures that exist and thrive within it. There's a beautiful balance between anonymity and familiarity as you navigate its streets and interact with its citizens.

What are you thinking behind the lens, before you capture the moment?
Is my exposure correct? Actually, in addition to that, I'm thinking whether I have established a good rapport with my subject before raising the camera to my eye. A lot of times, I don't even click if I don't feel the picture happening in my mind.

Which city or town in India do you like to visit?
Leh and Ladakh is definitely next on my list of places to visit. I want to feel the fascination of the landscape and its people.

Check out his exhibition at The Global Tree Cafe, F&B, Papanna Street, Off St Marks Road.
The exhibition is on till September 30