Many people are passionate about photography in Qatar. More and more people find it easy to pursue their love for photography in the country as they find sufficient time and support.
A recent exhibition of engaging photos from Qatar and India was inaugurated at the gallery of Fraser Suite Hotel. The well-received exhibition includes the works of five female photographers.
Photography enthusiasts gathered in large numbers on the opening day of the exhibition and appreciated all the 20 photographs that will remain on display till December 3. The photographers whose works are being exhibited are namely; Latifa al-Derwish, from Qatar, Meghna Shirish Iyer, Geraldine J Menezes, Shilpa Mannangi and Manjri Saxena from India.
The chief guest on the occasion was Ritu Kumaran, wife of the Indian ambassador to Qatar, and the guests of honours were Dr Saif al-Hajri, Chairman of the Friends of the Environment Centre (FEC) and head of ‘A Flower Each Spring’ programme, and Dr Nayana Wagh, Head of Indian Cultural Centre.
The exhibition titled ‘Beauty through the Eyes of Women’ included photos representing modern and ancient cultures of both Qatar and India. The exhibition is organised in accordance with the ongoing Qatar-Indian Year of Culture 2019. The exhibition was opened by the chief guest by cutting a ribbon. Later the guests along with photographers and guests cut a cake to mark the occasion.
The guests were briefed by the photographers about their works and passion for the photography. The photographs showed the landmark architectures of both the countries and their way of life. The visitors took great interest in the photos taken by the women photographers.
Talking to Community, Ritu Kumaran appreciated the works of the female photographers. She said: “The creativity that these girls have brought out is amazing. Each one of them has chosen different themes whether it is in portrait or landscapes. It is fascinating to see how much travel these girls have made to show different aspects of the two countries.
“I am very happy to be here and see the wonderful photos. I would like to see more of such exhibitions to highlight the cultures of India and Qatar. We have a long history of bilateral relations with Qatar. The country has been very generous in accepting everyone coming here.”
Dr Saif al-Hajri was all praise for the exhibition, adding that such occasions bring people close to each other and provide a chance to meet and greet. “Artists always help create such gatherings where people can get together. I also appreciate the organisers for holding the exhibition and promoting the works of female photographers.
“The relations between Qatar and India have been very strong for a long time. The exhibition also shows that the ties are growing stronger.”
Geraldine J Menezes follows photography as a profession. She is a wedding photographer. She is also a co-founder of Sharp Shooters International. “Wedding photography is what I do for living. Street, portrait, and travel photography is what keeps me going. I love interacting with people of different backgrounds. That is what you see in my works here. That is mainly portrait photography. I am exhibiting six images that are mainly about my travel in India. It is all about Indian culture.
“It is wonderful experience to be a part of the exhibition. It is actually my first exhibition in Qatar. I got the chance to meet other female photographers. We are learning from each other. it was also a great experience to curate and select the photos.”
Meghna Shirish Iyer is the photographer who mainly pushed for the exhibition. “I wanted to showcase some photographs from India and Qatar for the cultural year. I approached the hotel and we have brought together few female photographers. I have exhibited 11 photographs. Five of them are related to food representing the two countries.
“This is my second exhibition. I am overwhelmed by the interest the visitors have shown. In Qatar I am getting more work as a female photographer. I work as a full time photographer. I have specialised in documentary, commercial and fashion photography. The prospects for the female photographers are very bright in Qatar.”
Manjri Saxena is very young as a photographer. “I started photography only two years ago. This is my first exhibition. It is my hobby. I want to capture moments and life with my camera. I also like capturing wildlife.”
Group: From left: Shalini Gunawardena, Director of Sales and Marketing Fraser Suites; Meghna Shirish Iyer, Dr Nayana Wagh, Ritu Kumaran, Dr Saif al-Hajri, Geraldine J Menezes and Manjri Saxena.
