STORIES
The features in this section are in the form of shorter documentation on a range of subjects, each usually done over a few days. Many of the narratives are the result of Shaju’s travels, during which he would hear about a person or activity of interest in the region and proceed to visually document the same. These stories were published as special photo features in The Hindu. Among the themes showcased here are: the impact of cyclone Gaja that ravaged swathes of southern Tamil Nadu; a day at the Ezhimala Naval Academy; the story of the famed Tuticorin macaroons; and the travails of the salt pan workers near Tuticorin.
There is a set of visually rich and dynamic images on Kalari Guru Meenakshiamma; a poignant tale of the festival of transgenders; the powerful story of the jallikattu bulls and their tamers; and the incredible lives of the Irula tribals, who are skilled reptile catchers.
SALT OF THE EARTH
In focus, the lives and hardships of salt harvesters who toil in this small industry across coastal Tamil Nadu
FROM JOY TO DESPAIR IN A DAY
In their traditional festival, scores of transgenders marry the deity of the Koothandavar temple; but custom dictates that they are all widowed within days
FROM JOY TO DESPAIR IN A DAY
In their traditional festival, scores of transgenders marry the deity of the Koothandavar temple; but custom dictates that they are all widowed within days
A MARTIAL ART LEGEND
Mastering Kalaripayattu, Meenakshiamma has broken many stereotypes
TAMING OF THE BULL
In a sport that’s part training of animal, part showcasing of strength, young men seek to tame a raging bull
TAMING OF THE BULL
In a sport that’s part training of animal, part showcasing of strength, young men seek to tame a raging bull
RUNNING A TIGHT SHIP
At the Indian Naval Academy, men and women train hard to earn the stripes of an officer
GAJA IMPACT
In recent years extreme weather events, such as cyclones, have become more frequent
GAJA IMPACT
In recent years extreme weather events, such as cyclones, have become more frequent
SNAKES AND LADDERS
The Irulas of Chengalpattu, famed as reptile catchers, aspire for a better life for their children
COASTAL CONFECTIONS
The crunchy macaroon may have been brought to Thoothukudi by the Europeans, but it is the local version that is popular in the country and even abroad
COASTAL CONFECTIONS
The crunchy macaroon may have been brought to Thoothukudi by the Europeans, but it is the local version that is popular in the country and even abroad
