Obscura
A presentation and discussion on photography
19 August 2026
Silicon University, Odisha
Obscura, the annual photography initiative of Ketaki Foundation Trust, in collaboration with Silicon University and the Silicon Photography Club, marked its fifth edition on World Photography Day, 19 August 2026, at Silicon University, Odisha.
The programme began with an exhibition of photographs by students of the Silicon Photography Club, followed by the formal welcome address by Shri Kapilash Bhuyan, Trustee, Ketaki Foundation Trust. In his address, he spoke about photography as a medium of observation, documentation and storytelling, and welcomed the guests, students and photography enthusiasts to the event.
The gathering also paid tribute to Raghu Rai, one of India’s most celebrated photographers, who passed away earlier this year. A 40-second silence was observed in his memory, acknowledging his immense contribution to Indian photography and his enduring visual legacy.
The guest sessions brought diverse perspectives on wildlife and nature photography. Dr. Samrat Gowda, IFS, CCF, Sambalpur KL Circle, Wildlife Photographer & Nemophilist, spoke about different aspects, approaches and techniques involved in wildlife photography, drawing from his experience of observing and photographing the natural world.
Ms. Sourabha T. Gowda, Wildlife Photographer & Visual Artist, highlighted the importance of patience in wildlife photography and emphasised that a genuine love for nature and wildlife is essential to developing the sensitivity and commitment required behind the lens.
The programme then moved to presentations by students of the Silicon Photography Club, who shared their photographs and spoke about the thoughts, experiences and techniques behind the images they had captured. Their presentations brought a personal and engaging dimension to the programme, allowing them to reflect on their own photographic journeys and interact with the invited photographers.
Dr. Jaideep Talukdar, Vice-Chancellor, Silicon University, addressed the gathering as the Chief Guest and encouraged the young photographers to pursue photography with curiosity, creativity and a keen sense of observation.
Certificates were presented to the participating students, followed by the felicitation of the guests and the Silicon Photography Club.
Over five editions, Obscura has grown into a meaningful platform for photography enthusiasts and young photographers to learn, share and engage with the medium. The initiative continues to encourage a deeper way of seeing, where photography becomes not just the act of capturing an image, but a means of understanding, documenting and telling stories about the world around us.
Lighting the ceremonial lamp to inaugurate Obscura 2026 in the presence of Dr. Jaideep Talukdar, Dr. Samrat Gowda, Ms. Sourabha T. Gowda and Sri Ramahari Jena.
Shri Kapilash Bhuyan, Trustee, Ketaki Foundation Trust, delivering the Welcome Address at Obscura 2026.
Dr. Samrat Gowda, IFS, sharing insights on camera equipment, settings and techniques for wildlife photography during his presentation at Obscura 2026.
Ms. Sourabha T. Gowda, Wildlife Photographer & Visual Artist, sharing her perspective on wildlife photography and the importance of curiosity, patience and connection with nature at Obscura 2026.
Dr. Jaideep Talukdar, Vice-Chancellor, Silicon University, addressing the gathering and encouraging young photographers to explore photography with curiosity, creativity and a keen sense of observation.
A young photographer from the Silicon Photography Club presenting his work and sharing the ideas.
Participants of the Silicon Photography Club receiving their participation and appreciation certificates from the Chief Guest, guest speakers and members of Ketaki Foundation Trust at Obscura 2026.
Annapurna Mishra, Faculty In-charge of the Silicon Photography Club, being felicitated by Sri Jyoti Ranjan Swain, Managing Trustee, Ketaki Foundation Trust, during Obscura 2026.