Durga Puja Kolkata Photo Workshop

27th September 2022 – 3rd October 2022

Kolkata is a city with a deep soul and so many photographers fall in love with the place and its people. Known as the City of Joy for its soulful embodiment of culture, love, mystery, respect, enthusiasm, and some amazingly sweet delicacies. Kolkata (Calcutta) is a city that holds a perfect juxtaposition between the old world and the modern one.

To visit during the enthusiastic preparation time for the Durga Puja is to see the artistry and vibrancy of its communities at their fullest as they embrace this annual Hindu festival. To experience the Puja as it is celebrated by ordinary families and diverse communities is to glimpse something very special


Highlights

• Experience Kolkata during the creativity and excitement of the Durga Puja.

• See clay, straw and bamboo transform into the Goddess Durga.

• Be amazed by pandals (temporary shrines) being constructed and completed.

• Consider cultural and religious beliefs, and insights behind India’s largest festival.

• Photograph in a fascinating artisan’s neighbourhood unique in the world.

• Get under the skin of one of India’s largest flower markets.

• Explore with a renowned Kolkata photographer, guide and resident – Manjit.

• Enjoy individual coaching from two expert photographers – Robert & Manjit


The Team

Manjit Singh Hoonjan has been leading photography walks in Kolkata for many years, enthusiastically sharing his beloved home city with visitors from all over the world. He really knows the historical and cultural layers of the city and its people, and we will draw upon the special relationships he has built over the years. He is a skilled and committed photographer and generously coaches his guests in making better images.

Robert van Koesveld is an experienced photo tour leader and award-winning photographer who has visited Kolkata several times, always finding new stories and making picture essays.


Who Should Come

India is always intense and heading back after covid shutdowns will mean adapting to local protocols and extra flexibility. We imagine reasonably experienced travellers who are keen to get back on the road will welcome this opportunity. We aim to together reduce our covid risk on this shorter trip by maintaining best practices.

Those with any level of experience as a photographer will enjoy this trip, as will artists and nonphotographers who can, of course, enjoy making written or sketched images. We do spend lots of time in most locations, so you need to be open to that.

In terms of gear, there are no special requirements, other than your ability to carry it; we recommend travelling reasonably light. Anything from a good phone camera through to a mirrorless, DSLR or medium format camera is fine. If you are not a photographer something like a sketchbook or writing journal will be good too.

Seems like fun? Want more details? Download the detailed FREE brochure here:

Interested? Questions?

Email Manjit now to be informed of any details

info@calcuttaphototours.com

or simply use this form to get in touch with us.