Obscura

A presentation and discussion on photography
19 August 2022
Silicon University, Bhubaneswar

Every year on 19th August, World Photography Day unites people across the globe in honoring photography as a universal language of emotions, memories, and expression.

This year, Ketaki Foundation Trust, in collaboration with Silicon University and the Silicon Photography Club, hosted Obscura 2025 at the Silicon University campus, Bhubaneswar. The event brought together photographers, students, and enthusiasts in a vibrant celebration of creativity and learning.

The program began with a welcome address by Satyabhushan Hota, Trustee of Ketaki Foundation Trust. The expert sessions that followed set the tone for the day.

Well-known photographer D. K. Patnaik, the chief speaker of the event, delivered an engaging talk on “Trends in Photography – From Old to New.” He traced the journey of photography from the early days of analogue technology to the digital advancements of today, highlighting how cameras and technologies have evolved over the years. Drawing from his own experience and responding to the queries from the audience, he shared insights from his photographs of Ladakh, explaining the details of lenses, aperture, exposure modes and the importance of timing used to capture the region’s landscapes with depth and clarity providing an in-depth knowledge to the students. His session seamlessly combined history, technology, and practice, offering students a comprehensive understanding of photography’s techniques and transformation.

On a different note, well-known ornithologist and photographer Pramod Dhal brought the audience closer to the world of wildlife. Through striking visuals and fascinating narratives, he spoke about his experience in wildlife photography, each frame telling a story. His unmistakable knowledge and passion were evident in his narration behind his photographs of hornbills to Indian skimmers, melanistic jackals to the tigers of the Sundarbans mangroves. His presentation kept audience engaged revealing the deep observation and patience required for wildlife photography. His session left listeners with an enriched appreciation of both birds and animals in their natural habitats.

A key highlight of Obscura 2025 was the student photography exhibition, where young talents presented their perspectives through powerful visuals. Selected participants received recognition, and an interactive session gave students the chance to directly engage with experts.

The program concluded with an inspiring address by Dr. Jaideep Talukdar, Vice-Chancellor of Silicon University and Chief Guest, who emphasized photography’s role in shaping culture, documenting change, and inspiring creativity.

Conducted under the guidance of Jyoti Ranjan Swain, Managing Trustee of Ketaki Foundation Trust, with the support of Silicon University authorities, Obscura 2025 marked the fourth consecutive year of this celebration. The event continues to grow as a platform that nurtures creativity, connects communities, and reaffirms the timeless impact of photography.

Chief speaker of the event D. K. Patnaik presenting his views and experience on photography with visuals to the august audience.

Young talents presented their perspectives through powerful visuals.

Photographers, eminent professor, students of the photography club and the audience captivated by thought-provoking discussions at the event.