Sajeesh Rajendran

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Following… without making a noise…

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Framed in:  Shadows reveal much about our true selves. They reflect who we really are, unaltered and authentic, an image that cannot be manipulated. When we stray from our path, our shadow serves as a reminder of our true nature, gently guiding us back. It delves into our inner soul, finding its way to our heart. As Buddha said, it is the constant companion, silently following us wherever we go, until the end of our days. It is, in essence, our better half.

A shadow also symbolizes a promise—a confirmation that a great light surrounds us, dispelling the darkness. It is a quiet, ever-present force, leading a silent revolution within us.

Framed Out:  A gloomy day can be transformed with the snap of a fantastic picture. It was a dull afternoon, one of those uneventful holidays that seem to drift by. As I wandered around my mom’s house, camera in hand, I found nothing that caught my eye—until the idea of photographing my own shadow struck me. Driven by curiosity, I used my Yashica FX3 to capture the image, and as I did, a dried leaf entered the frame, adding a touch of elegance. This simple element strengthened the composition, making it visually captivating. The mysterious quality of the photo gave it an intriguing allure, turning an otherwise ordinary moment into something special.

Grey Frames: Shadow owes its birth to light.   John Gay 

Trapped in Between…

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Framed in: No matter what we do to bring clarity, chaos persists. It’s a curse of our generation, lost in the maze of the Internet and the digital revolution. Despite advancements in communication and technology that should make life easier and more relaxed, we face increasing pressure and unhappiness. Contentment is elusive, especially for today’s youth, who often feel off-track. They drift aimlessly, like being lost at sea without a destination. This leaves them with a strange expression, unable to fully enjoy life.

Imagine a serene landscape filled with lush green tea bushes, a cool, refreshing river flowing through the middle, a pleasant breeze kissing your lips, musical notes played by cuckoos, and gentle drizzles under mild sunlight. What more could you need to enjoy life? Yet, even in such a setting, chaos and solitude remain—a persistent curse.

Framed out: This picture was taken at Panniar Dam in Kerala during my brief tenure as an Assistant Manager at one of the tea estates in Surianelli, managed by HML. It was a memorable Sunday when my best friend, the sound mixer Vishnu, came to visit me at the estate. We decided to make a trip to Panniar Dam, joined by my colleagues Arun K. Nair, Milton Durom, and Sijin. The trip was fantastic in every sense—boating on the dam all day, with occasional showers and rum to keep us company. It was truly one of those days to cherish.

Before we embarked on the boat, there was a moment when the clouds parted and allowed the sun to shine through. I spotted Vishnu sitting on the riverbank, smoking and lost in deep thought. His pose, filled with attitude, caught my attention. Seizing the moment, I captured this shot with my Yashica camera. This picture, with its contemplative and serene mood, remains one of my favorites.

Grey Frames: we should consider every day lost on which we have not danced at least once. And we should call every truth false which was not accompanied by at least one laugh.       Friedrich Nietzsche

Gliding between Life and Death!

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Framed in:  How should we welcome death? It’s a paradoxical question, yet profound. According to Osho, acknowledging that death is inevitable allows us to let life flow naturally. Clinging to life only breeds discontent, leaving us with an unfulfilled feeling that there’s more to accomplish. In this perspective, hope can be seen as a villain, as death cannot be postponed even for a second. So why hesitate to accept it?

“The Last Leaf” by O. Henry once inspired many, but it also brought about strange thoughts. It offers a false promise—nothing in this world is eternal. The same applies to certain relationships. Some may be intense but ultimately unstable, constantly reminding us that they won’t last. Despite this, we often cling to them. The best way to move forward is to let them go. Allow them to drift away and resist the urge to hold on. The emptiness might be painful for a while, but time is the best healer, as the cliché goes.

Let the leaf hanging on the edge of your finger fall. Let it descend and perish, for new leaves will undoubtedly sprout in its place.

Framed out: This picture was taken during one of our practical classes in my second year of undergraduate studies. There was a huge structure made of iron, covered with a white translucent material. At the time, we had no idea what it was for, though I now suspect it was meant for table-top photography. Ironically, it was used for everything except its intended purpose! Creativity was the buzzword back then, and we were constantly trying weird things to prove we could think outside the box. This photo was the result of one such experiment.

I found a banyan tree leaf and asked my friend Gayathri Devi (Gayu) to hold it against the white translucent board with one finger while I positioned a light directly behind it. The result was this picture, which has a mysterious look. It’s another addition to my collection of unconventional photos. I captured it with my Yashica FX3 camera, using an FX7 lens.

Grey Frames: The fear of death follows from the fear of life.  A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.  ~Mark Twain

Beyond Frames :  “Creativity is defeating habit by originality:” (Courtesy: One of the tables in the Transit in Forum Mall in Bangalore and Nitha who showed it to me!). 

Through out… Till the end….

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Framed in :  Life is a constant wait. From the moment we are born, waiting becomes an inseparable part of us. As children, we wait for our mom’s caring hugs and our dad’s sweet pecks. We wait for buses, exam results, and countless other things. When the hormones start to stir and we meet the right person, we wait for them to become a part of our lives. Every wait carries hope.

But there are also waits with no definite hopes, and yet… As my friend once wrote to me, “Ella kaathirippinu pinnilum oru pratheekshayundavum. Pratheekshayillaatha kaathirippinu pakshe oru sukhamund!” (Every wait has hope, but even a wait without hope has its own pleasure!) Certain relationships are like that. Even though the hopes and expectations of being together are faint, the mind still waits, without any hope but with love that persists. Can this love remain eternal even if separation is inevitable? Let’s wait and see.

In essence, what is life? It is nothing but a wait for death from the day we are born. She is also waiting for him, hoping that one day he will come and embrace her.

Framed out : I don’t have an exact date for when this photo was taken, but it was in my second-year classroom, so it must have been around 2004. I remember that day well. We had just returned from a tiring trip and were relaxing in the classroom. Suddenly, I noticed her (my classmate) standing in the doorway, looking as though she was waiting for someone. Her melancholy expression caught my attention. Intrigued, I snapped the photo with my Yashica FX3 without her knowledge. I think she liked the picture!

Grey Frames :  “Waiting is painful. Forgetting is painful. But not knowing which to do is the worse kind of suffering.”   Paulo Coelho.

 Beyond Frames : For all those who are waiting for something endlessly.. (I know a quite a few people now!). Keep faith… The hopes will be delivered.. So wait with happiness!!! 

Rough Terrains…

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Framed in: Barren terrains, dried-up bushes, and a gloomy sky—what more could you need to make your day feel like the worst? The sight of the desolate land, filled with thorny, lifeless shrubs, often brings on strange dreams: dreams of getting lost, dreams of getting hurt, dreams of being in a hot frying pan, and more. These eerie, dried-up bushes seem to crack the unexplored sky, leaving the unpainted canvas marred with dark patches and gloomy ashes.

Yet, somewhere in that sky lies hope—the hope for rain to bring new sprouts and buds, the hope for brighter sunshine to restore happiness. Every dark patch in life will eventually give way to a better tomorrow. Wait patiently for the right time to cross the rough terrains.

Framed Out: A casual morning walk with my elder uncle G.K. never seemed to offer much for my camera. It was a gloomy morning, and the light was too dim. My Zenith Camera, a 1960 Russian make, had a slower lens with a maximum aperture of 4, so I knew it wasn’t ideal time for photography. We talked about many things during our walk—poetry, cinema, Osho, and R.K.’s cartoons.

Then, something caught my eye: dried-up bushes hanging on a rough patch against a grey sky. The scene was perfect for my love of silhouettes. I quickly took out my camera, set the shutter speed to 1/30, and supported the camera by holding it tightly against my body. I clicked, hoping for a silhouette. The exposure was just right, and the color was perfect. Despite the gloomy atmosphere, which makes the image look like black and white, it was actually taken in color.

Grey Frames: “Faith is the bird that feels the light and sings when the dawn is still dark.”        Rabinthranath Tagore

                                                                                                           

Searching for existence..

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Framed in:  When an individual loses a sense of personal sameness and historical continuity, they fall into a state known as an “identity crisis.” During such times, we may feel dejected and disconnected from the world, questioning our reasons for being here. However, there is undoubtedly a purpose for our presence, as nothing happens without a cause. This concept is echoed in the principles of Chaos Theory. Over time, the importance of certain things may diminish while the significance of others increases. This is a natural process.

Consider this statue: it evokes memories of a once glorious past. Though now untouched and ignored, it likely had a fabulous history, possibly even being worshipped. Broken and neglected, it remains in its place, experiencing an identity crisis, unaware of its purpose. This can happen to any of us. So beware!

Framed out:  This picture was taken at Dauna Pola Beach in Goa, one of the rarest beaches in the area, known for its lack of sand. This particular statue captured my attention. Its stance facing the sea and its mysterious appearance intrigued me, compelling me to photograph it without delay.

Using a Nikon FM10 camera loaded with Fuji 200 film, I was able to achieve the colors I envisioned. The photo beautifully showcases the qualities of a telephoto lens. With a Vivitar 75-300mm lens set at 300mm, I controlled the depth of field and introduced a slight out-of-focus effect, enhancing its enigmatic feel. Captured from a position slightly above the horizon, the picture gives the impression of being taken from an aircraft, adding to its mysterious allure. Truly, an identity crisis encapsulated!

 Grey Frames: “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how. Friedrich Nietzsche 

Romantic Mornings….

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Framed in:  Dreams are boundless, slipping in and out like whispers in the night. For me, they are overwhelmingly romantic—woven with passion and longing. I find solace in these solitary journeys through enchanting landscapes, where each step feels like a seductive invitation to dream. I imagine walking hand in hand with someone special, wandering through lush, mystical greenery, sharing breaths and dreams as we move toward the horizon. And if rain accompanies us, it feels like a perfect addition to the magic. Yet, often these paths are walked alone. There’s no one to intertwine fingers with or share the rhythm of a heartbeat. These paths are my dreams—lonely but endlessly hopeful, leading me toward a realm of infinite possibility, where every step is a step toward love.

Framed out: This photo is part of my series titled “Nostalgic Mornings,” which I created for an academic assignment. Capturing the early hours of the morning has always been a passion of mine. So, when given the chance to choose a topic for the assignment, I didn’t hesitate—mornings were the perfect choice. The romantic, serene, and cool blue mornings inspired me. I packed my kit and ventured to the Nilgiri mountain ranges to capture the essence of dawn. The series turned out beautifully, showcasing the richness of the morning light and the freshness of the early rays. This particular shot was taken with my Yashica FX3 and FX7 lens. These photos are my pathways to dreams, reflecting the tranquility and allure of the early morning hours.

Grey Frames: “The minute I heard my first love story, I started looking for you, not knowing how blind that was. Lovers don’t finally meet somewhere. They’re in each other all along.” – Rumi

Beyond Frames: This post is dedicated to some one who has led me to the discovery of the best Music I can ever hear! Who has taught me the meaning of the smileys! Some one who dreams to make my dreams a reality; to walk in rain with the fingers crossed… rains with pearls and crystals… who has taught me “if there is a reason to love, there is a reason for life and beyond!”.. Who always keeps on telling me “certain relationships come without a tag!”  For her magic ragas of love and affection! Yes it is for you… just for you…

 

For Tomorrow….

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Framed in : These photos were part of a series titled “India 2020.” As Jawahar Lal Nehru said, “Today’s children are tomorrow’s citizens.” To achieve the vision of our former president Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, we must start preparing our children today. With its vast and rich resources, India has the potential to become a global powerhouse. However, our energy and efforts need to be channeled in the right direction. It is crucial to provide today’s children, who are tomorrow’s citizens, with the proper vision and guidance to lead India to new horizons. Let us prepare for that future!

Framed out: When I was given the topic “India 2020,” I found myself in a dilemma about what to photograph. My thoughts turned to Dr. Abdul Kalam’s dream and vision, inspiring me to focus on preparing children for 2020. I must thank my classmates Rajma and Varna for helping me find the perfect location to photograph those adorable kids. However, this was the toughest assignment I’ve ever undertaken. It wasn’t as easy as it looks in the pictures! Getting them to sit still and listen was incredibly challenging. I have a newfound respect for filmmakers who work with children, and I understand why movies featuring kids often gain international acclaim. Despite the difficulties, the children were sweet and endearing. This experience was invaluable for me as a photographer, and the concept has received wide recognition.

Grey Frames: “A developed India by 2020, or even earlier, is not a dream. It need not be a mere vision in the minds of many Indians. It is a mission we can all take up – and succeed.” – A P J Abdul Kalam.

The First Rays….

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Framed in:  Dawn… The first light in the sky before sunrise. It brings hope and a pleasant breeze. After a restful sleep, we wake to the cool morning air, filled with happiness and expectations. The atmosphere is serene, and the windows are ready to welcome the new rays of hope. What more could you need? Embrace it. Let it always be dawn in your life! May the balance of your life remain steady, and may the birds chirp joyfully all around you.

 

Framed out: It was Panjim, Goa—an ideal haven for any photographer. The visual variety and richness it offers are truly remarkable! A simple walk with your camera can transform you into an exceptional photographer. My first visit was in 2004, to photograph a painting exhibition organized by the Indian Christian Art Association. I was assigned by my college to cover the event. The mornings were always enticing. Armed with a Nikon FM10 camera and a 70-200mm Vivitar lens, I set out for a morning walk. It rewarded me with some incredible pictures. This one is particularly dear to me, as it captures a wide array of perspectives: the symmetry, the colors, the lighting, and the grandeur of Portuguese architecture. Presenting that dawn… for you!

Grey Frames: “However long the night, the dawn will break”  : African proverb

 

The Elixir….

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Framed in: Dreams are the essence of life. Without them, life would be a monotonous chain of realities. They add spice, hope, and joy, and when you dream, you are reborn. In this sense, dreams are the elixir of life.

Dreams are deeply personal; you can’t expect someone else to dream for you. You must dream your own dreams and hold on to them tightly. As former President of India, Dr. Abdul Kalam, famously said, “Dreams are not those you see during your sleep, but those that keep you sleepless.”

So, I am sleepless and still clinging to my dreams. Are you with me?

Framed out: It was one of those monotonous vacation days. After lunch, I usually feel a wave of lethargy that tempts me to nap, but I despise sleeping during daylight. To shake off the drowsiness, I grabbed my camera and wandered around the compound of my house with a macro lens attached, searching for something intriguing.

Nothing captivated my interest until, on a whim, I glanced at my fist and held it up against the sun. That sight sparked my creativity. I quickly removed the lens cap, set the shutters and apertures to the higher end, and clicked with one hand. The result was stunning!

This photo has drawn a lot of appreciation for me as a photographer. There was even a mention of this photograph in one of the issues of ‘The Hindu’ when it was exhibited in “Artographies,” an exhibition of photographs and paintings.

Grey Frames : “Nothing happens unless first we dream” : CARL SANDBURG