India is a land of contrasts, history, and vibrant culture, and me and my lens were ready. We landed in Chennai and after some days here, we boarded the train to Christian Hospital Bissamcuttack-CHB, Orissa. The train ride from Chennai to Bissamcuttack was a joyful thing in itself. As the train rattled through the landscapes, I marveled at the change in scenery—the bustling streets of Chennai slowly giving way to the green countryside. The soft hum of the train, the occasional clatter of the tracks, and the diverse faces of fellow travelers became a perfect moment for photography. It’s in these candid snapshots, that I find India’s soul—raw, unposed, and full of life.

Upon reaching Christian Hospital Bissamcuttack, I took the time to reflect on my visit. Every time we come to CHB; you have to reflect on all the good things they do for the local people. The hospital, with its tranquil surroundings, was a place where stories of hope and perseverance unfolded. We stayed for some days in the guest house, and it was a pleasure to meet the doctors and nurses again and notice all the good work that was done. You can read about CHB on my Kolkata and Orissa 2008 page.

After returning to Chennai, we ventured out to Mamallapuram, a town steeped in history and culture. Here, I found myself wandering through the ancient stone carvings, the intricate sculptures telling stories of millennia past. One of the highlights was my visit to Krishna’s Butter Ball, a giant boulder balanced precariously on a slope. The sight was awe-inspiring, and I couldn’t resist capturing the playful tension between the massive rock and the surrounding people. As a photographer, Mamallapuram was a dream. The dramatic coastline, the sprawling temples, and the lively streets were perfect for street photography. Each frame I captured seemed to tell a story—whether it was a local artisan working on intricate carvings or children playing by the beach, the energy of the place filled every shot.

Next on my journey was Kanchipuram, a town known for its historic temples and rich cultural heritage. The temples here are some of the most sacred in India. The town offers a unique opportunity for both portrait and architectural photography, with its blend of spirituality and stunning craftsmanship.

No trip to Southern India is complete without a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway from Mettupalyam to Ooty, we had the privilege of capturing one of the most picturesque train journeys in the world. As the train climbed the steep mountain slopes, the landscape unfolded in layers. I was especially drawn to the way the train meandered through the hills, offering glimpses of the surrounding beauty. It felt like stepping back in time, as if the train was a living relic, slowly moving through a timeless landscape.
Final Thoughts: A Journey in Photographs and Memories.

Whether it was the faces of the people I met, the grandeur of the ancient temples, or the natural beauty of the Nilgiri Hills, each photograph was a piece of a larger narrative. Southern India is a place where past and present collide.
As our trip came to an end, I reflected on the many experiences we had. These are memories that will stay with me, not just as photographs, but inside me.