Capturing the Essence of Kulasai Dasara: A Journey through Vibrant Celebrations
Embarking on the Kulasai Dasara journey this year was nothing short of a dream realized. Picture this: five of us, eagerly venturing into the vibrant festivities. Amidst the group, only two were acquainted with Tamil, myself included. Lucky for us, our Tamil-speaking friend not only shared his linguistic prowess but also brought along his trusty vehicle and driver Anna, turning our adventure into a seamless escapade filled with cultural wonders and unexpected twists.
Our base for the entire adventure was Tirichundure, where we set out on a three-day exploration of the festival’s vibrant celebrations. On the first day, we immersed ourselves in the heart of the festivities by venturing into nearby villages. These hidden gems proved to be the perfect canvas for documenting the true essence of the celebration, far removed from the bustling temple and beach areas.
he following day, our curiosity led us back to the villages. We were enamored by the warm reception we received from the locals, who seemed genuinely delighted to be photographed. There were moments, however, when I questioned if we might be pushing the boundaries of their graciousness. Our village-hopping quest took us in search of the most secluded village, a journey made seamless by our Tamil friend’s provision of both vehicle and driver.
In these intimate village settings, we observed photographers vying for the perfect frame, occasionally encroaching on personal space. It was disheartening to witness, but it also highlighted the surge of content creators who sought to capture the experience from every possible angle.
By day’s end, we made our way back to the initial village not just for its familiarity, but to ensure we were in prime position for the evening’s performance. Our choice was validated as we witnessed the village come to life in a way that left an indelible mark on us.
The third day marked the pinnacle of the festival. An early start led us straight to the beach, though traffic restrictions meant a 30-minute drive stretched into an hour and a half. We took turns braving the scorching sun to capture the performers, seeking refuge in the occasional shade. As the day wore on, the relentless heat prompted us to take intermittent breaks, retreating to the sanctuary of shade before venturing out once more.
Food had been a privilege throughout the trip, as time and options for meals were limited. On the second day, our fortunes took a turn when we were graciously invited by locals to partake in their festival feast. However, for the remaining days, sustenance largely consisted of water and soft drinks.
As the sun dipped lower in the sky, signaling a reprieve from the day’s scorching heat, a new challenge arose. Influencers and content creators descended in droves, armed with an arsenal of gadgets to capture that elusive frame (often thousands of times over). Witnessing performers being coerced into contorted poses and unnatural settings was disheartening. It struck a dissonant chord with the true essence of the festival.
In response, we sought refuge in quieter corners that still pulsated with the festival’s energy. Our decision to move proved fortuitous, unveiling hidden gems that showcased the festival’s spirit. We lingered until nightfall, ultimately returning to our accommodations. While we had initially entertained the idea of staying through the night, we sensed that there was little left to discover beyond what we had already experienced.
Our final day in Tiruchedur unfolded with a leisurely stroll around the temple grounds, immersing ourselves in the activities that unfolded around us. Conversations flowed about how best to conclude our adventure, leading us to the salt fields of Thoothukudi. Recent rains had left the fields waterlogged, their usual workers absent. Nonetheless, we had the privilege of engaging with and photographing the resilient factory workers.
In hindsight, this journey stands as a watermark in my photography endeavors. It forged new connections and left me enriched with knowledge and experiences that will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors.
