Jiten's world

Bells from Chabil

2012-01-24T21:36:00.000+05:45

The bunch of bells at Chabil Ganesh temple locked by chains to prevent from theft.

A Beloved Pet

2012-01-19T21:27:00.000+05:45

A local women takes a stroll around Annapurna Temple with her beloved pets one morning at Ason.

Changing Landmarks

2012-01-18T21:17:00.001+05:45

Big commercial buildings are increasing in the capital and landscape is rapidly being dominated and dwarfed by big constructions as seen in these photos taken on Wednesday Jan 18,2012.The number of housings and apartments have immensely increased these days due to the increasing number of population at kathmandu valley.

Hunger for Education

2012-01-17T21:29:00.000+05:45

A girl engrossed in reading text book while she awaits customer

to sell old use text books at roadside stall near Singha Durbar,

Kathmandu.

A boy flips pages of a book while owner of the books store
at Durbarmarg get busy cleaning up.

Unpredictable

2012-01-16T21:36:00.001+05:45

Women and Paddy Field of Khokana

2012-01-15T21:38:00.000+05:45

Hardworking women farmers from Khokana village, Lalitpur heading for their paddy field to work. The month of June in Nepal is season of planting paddy, followed by mid September to October as harvesting time. Agriculture is the major sector of Nepalese economy. It provides employment opportunities to 66 per cent of the total population and contributes about 36 per cent in the GDP.

Warm Winter Sun

2012-01-13T21:38:00.001+05:45

A women taking naps in morning Sun at Bhhinchhe Bahal, Patan.

Ghee Lamp for Annapurna

2012-01-12T21:01:00.001+05:45

Light always signify knowledge and lighting ghee lamps can be more than just spreading knowledge if you have big faith in God. Many people light the lamp and bow down to knowledge as the greatest of all forms of wealth. Knowledge backs all our actions whether good or bad. People therefore keep a lamp lit during all auspicious occasions as a witness to thoughts and actions they take in life. I still remember my childhood days when my mother use to tell me that to offer a ghee lamp to God, is almost like burning yourself as a greatest offer to God.

Besides the traditional ghee and oil lamp has a further spiritual significance. The oil or ghee in the lamp symbolizes our vaasanas or negative tendencies and the wicked, the ego. When lit by spiritual knowledge, the vaasanas get slowly exhausted and the ego too finally perishes. The flame of a lamp always burns upwards. Similarly we should acquire such knowledge as to take us towards higher ideals.

Here's some devotees both from Buddhist and Hindu religion offering Ghee Lamps to Annapurna Ajima at Ason, Kathmandu in early morning.

Water Woes in Lalitpur.

2012-01-11T19:42:00.000+05:45

People in core Patan city rely heavily on traditional water spouts like wells builtmore than a century ago as they serve as the best source of water during the dry season.Senior citizens of Lalitpur still recall, “No water from other source is tastier likewell water”.

The well water is widely used in various household purposes, ranging from washingto cleaning and sometimes drinking as well. Tradition and cultural linked with wells stillsurvive in this historic city and people here still celebrate Cithinakha festival, duringwhich they clean wells and preserve them. Lalitpur is probably the only place left wherethe locals have managed to restore and conserve the historic wells.

But the problems do exist, as the constantly decreasing water level indicates seriouswater crisis in the near future. Well water level does not remain constant but changesover the certain time period. As people are drawing more water, water level too hasdecreased in the wells. As a result, adding of the extra rings in the already existing wellshas become a regular community activity nowadays.But this does seems to be the solution. Occasional practice of rain water harvestingand other conservational acts are delaying the “Going deeper in search of water process”slightly. It is now high time people in Patan work towards fi nding better ways tosave these traditional heritage.

Walking Shadows

2012-01-10T20:16:00.000+05:45

Photos that I have captured one evening at Ason for photo assignment during Frederic Lexloux from Agence VU, France photography workshop 'Photographing The Everyday' organized by photocircle. It was fun and poetic moments chasing shadows for hours under street lamp at Ason that day. I know shadows fascinate many photographers while other may find them scary.

Clay Lamp from Bhaktapur

2012-01-09T20:46:00.000+05:45

Traditional clay lamps known as 'dallucha' on display for sale at Pottery square Bhaktapur. Such lamps can be seen hanged outside windows of traditional Newar houses for burning oil lamp called ‘arati’ every evening.

Faces of Winter from Ason

2012-01-08T20:44:00.001+05:45

Yomari: Delightful Newar Delicacy

2012-01-06T21:25:00.000+05:45

Yomari is the traditional food of Newar community in Nepal. I am not a big fan of Yomari but there are many people whose mouths get watery while they think of it. Yomari is a Newari delicacy which is made of rice flour stuffed with sweet paste made of molasses and sesame. Every year during the full moon of December Newar community around the valley celebrated festival Yomaripune, and this delicacy is get cooked.

Women and Children in Winter

2012-01-05T16:26:00.000+05:45

Bell for Prosperity

2012-01-04T20:43:00.000+05:45

An elderly woman tries to ring the bell at Annapurna Ajima Temple at Ason on Wednesday morning Jan 4, 2012. Bells are very part of culture and religion in Nepal and ringing of the bell is regarded as an auspicious sound.

Assignment Ordinary

2012-01-03T19:07:00.000+05:45

Prem Bahadur Kulung Rai, a jolly guy from Jirmale-5, Ilam. We have been working together at NEFEJ for past 12 years. I do not know what was his dreams when he ventured to this big city 19 years ago, but what he is now and his struggle in life is definitely not an ordinary challenge. Of course dreams he had then and reality now is completely a different picture. To survive in a big city at a rented room with 3 children and a wife is hard life for sure but will he has to carry on and face the challenge is really motivating. 'Assignment Ordinary' is my small attempt to document inspiring character in people like him.

Season of Marigold: Tihar Festival

2011-11-10T20:09:00.001+05:45

A little girl help her mother to make garland of Marigold near Kasthamandap, Kathmandu on Laxmi Puja. Marigold is an auspicious flower for Diwali festival.

Flower vendor making garland of marigold at Ason, Kathmandu. There is a huge demand of Marigold flower during Festival like Tihar.

A flower vendor selling bundle of garland at Ason, Kathmandu.

Vendors in their stall at Ason, making garland of Marigold flower which is in big demand for Laxmi puja during Tihar festival.

People retruning back home on bike after buying bundle of Marigold flower. People decorated their homes, shops and offices by marigold flower, which is considered an auspicious flower for Diwali festival.

Quest for Street Photography at SCC

2011-10-02T18:47:00.007+05:45

Quest for 'Street Photography'is a venture School of Creative Communications (SCC) explores along with 18 participants of Photography Workshop Batch XVIII that concludes today (November 1, 2011). Motive behind this venture is to help workshop participants to gain confidence and first-hand knowledge on pursuing street photography. These are some pictures I was able to capture during the workshop XVIII, while I help them take better street photos.

A Day at Buddhist Child Home.

2011-07-01T11:49:00.001+05:45

Culture and People

2011-04-22T15:13:00.002+05:45

Reflecting the Past: I am not sure what this old man has in mind while I photographed him this morning at Ason but I am sure the lifestyle he enjoy is fast changing.

Different parade of life and culture. Harmony we keep is what makes us unique and allow us to feel proud of being Nepali.

An elderly women feed pigeons at Seto Machindranath Temple near Ason, Kathmandu. Going temple morning and feeding pigeon is a daily chore for many elderly people like this women.

Into nothingness

2011-03-27T18:16:00.004+05:45

This woman I met Last year (22nd March 2010) at Patan Darbar Square, who is resting in the course of a walk undertaken on an apparent errand and taking time off to draw on a cigarette too. Looked into it from the perspective of the slogan of building a “New Nepal” — a catch phrase now — there does not seem to be anything that interests her.

Graffiti For Saraswati

2011-02-11T13:13:00.001+05:45

Devotees including Children amuses themselves in writing wall of Saraswait Temple in kathmandu while celebrating Shreepanchami festival February 8, 2011. Especially children are given their first writing and reading lessons at the Goddess Saraswati temple in the belief that the goddess of education Saraswati will help them excel in education

Hot Cake of Maghe Sangranti

2011-01-14T19:05:00.004+05:45

Various kind of yam being sold at Ason Chok on Thursday morning, Kathmandu. Intake of Yam is must during Maghe Sankranti. Maghe Sankrati is observed at the beginning of the holy month of Magh. It is customary to take holy dips at river confluence, perform worship at various shrines and take yam and 'chaku' as special food items on this occasion.

The belief goes that eating such items as ghee and Chaku, sesame seed candy, vegetables and yam, and giving them away in charity on this day after taking a holy dip helps one become healthier.

Hindus in Nepal, India and Sikkim also observe this day as 'Makar Sankranti' as it marks the sun's journey Northwards.

Rudra: Tea Maker of Ason

2011-01-11T19:43:00.007+05:45

The tower clock across the block has just hit 3:30 in the dead of night, and the denizens of city are cuddled up in their warm beds. But not Rudra. His day begins just before the crack of dawn. He is getting ready to start serving the piping hot cup of tea from 4 am.

Rudra, who is Mailadai to many, is following this schedule since the past 11 years. His tea stall, which is adjacent to Annapurna Ajima Temple at Ason Chowk, is a hallmark of quality cup of tea.

Needless to say his tea stall is literally swarmed by customers, with nearly all of them being well to do shop owners and traders of Ason. Maiya, his wife, can be seen delivering orders near and far.

The fare comprises black tea, lemon tea, masala tea and of course the usual milk tea. But one thing about the tea he serves is that it has the distinct taste. The fact that Rudra attracts customers from as far as Kavre and Banepa only substantiates the fact that he adds definite value to the commodity.

No wonder that the small stall is doing a roaring business at 1000 cups a day, with record being 1300 on his day. What is central to his tea stall is anyone who comes once makes it a point to return some day. Many are said to be starting their day saying, “ I will have tea at Rudra’s”.

His story goes back to many “ups” and “downs” of life before he decided to carve out his place on Ason street corner, literally. “Coincidentally, a certain Sita Didi had lent him Rs.1000 when he talked of setting up tea stall. Today he owns a good plot of land at Bhakatapur out of earning he made from his tea stall.

The beginning was unimpressive with only few customers coming his way. But he has taken big strides by the next 20 days. He says that the sale was “geometric”, whatever that means. He has not looked back ever since and lives with his wife, and a son.

His next job was at Putali Sadak and fetched him Rs.60 per month for the next four years. Rudra was wedded to Maiya while still minors, he, 12, and, she 9. Birat, their son, came 9 years hence. Now he is 17 and certainly at the climacteric phase of his life. One doubts the couple knows about it.

Someone who hails from Kavre, Rudra has only attended adult literacy classes. His wife too never went to school. But here is a punch to the tale: Rudra had come on to Kathmandu at the age of 6. He started as a dishwasher at his uncle’s tea stall at Bansbari. He has left the place after he was beaten up for “no reason” at all by his cousin.

This family of three is living happily today. Thanks to the consistent struggle of this couple, who can be a big answer to many who dream of migrating abroad for better life.

Slideshow: Workshop on Online Journalism

2010-12-07T16:01:00.000+05:45

Workshop on Online Journalism at MTC/NEFEJ

2010-11-26T17:07:00.002+05:45

Yet another workshop on 'Online Journalism' kicks in at Media Training Centre/NEFEJ today in Kathmandu. This workshop will continue till 28 November 2010 and there are 27 aspiring participants from different professions who wish to pursue further career as online reporter/journalist and blogger.

Online or new media practice is in initial stage in Nepal and objective of this workshop is to make participants familiar with online media and build their technical and professional capacity with specialized issue to address. Theme of the workshop is 'Food Hygiene Consumer Rights and Environmental Justice'.

During opening session, advocate and consumer right activist Jyoti Baniya shed light on importance of consumers rights and make participants aware of dreadful state of unhygienic food in the market. Another distinguished guest Dr. Narayan Balbase, former country director of IUCN also briefed on environmental justice and need of environment conservation in the country.

Later today, Suraj Adhikari and Chandra K. Chakradhar IT expers from Nepalnews.com shared participants the development of online journalism in Nepal and various facets of running webpage and online business.

Nepal Sambat 1131

2010-11-15T12:02:00.005+05:45

Nepal Sambat, a unique calendar which is named after the country, is based on lunar calendar and is believed to have started during 880 AD when Shankhadhar Shakhwa, a local merchant from Kathmandu, paid off the debts of common people on his own, thus emancipating thousands of people from serfdom.

According to the state-owned news agency RSS, the Nepal Sambat calendar was in use for 888 years and it was banned at the state level in 1960 Bikram Sambat year.

Different efforts were made to reinstate the Nepal Sambat since the establishment of democracy in 2007 BS.

The government declared Shankhadhar Sakhwa who propounded the Nepal Sambat calendar and made notable contribution to society and the nation as national luminary in 2055 BS.

Assignment Ason II

2010-11-02T13:38:00.007+05:45

Most probably Ason is the only place where you still see and smell of ancient Kathmandu. Each dawn parade of life get animated in Ason with full of euphoria and this is such a great opportunity for me of freeze all these dramas of life that get unfolded there.

Life begins early at Ason and this small tea stall near Annapura Temple get swarmed by people every morning to sip local tea. Even I have become one of its regular customer.

Prespective from Baudhanath.

2010-09-13T11:00:00.000+05:45

Poking Pokhara

2010-09-09T09:25:00.006+05:45

It sounds no good if one thinks of visiting Pokhara during rainy season, because chances of viewing spectacular view of Fishtail Mountain is zero and rain might ruin your plan of visiting many interesting spots of Pokhara. But that's not always true. Last week I was there and enjoyed the rainy mood and mist in Pokhara. Especially green atmosphere is so refreshing while you zoom on wheels to Pokhara this time of the year. Though, some small landslide and highway traffic jam are few bitter experiences, yet I had great time there in Pokhara.

And as a photojournalist here are some pokes I made in Pokhara.

Painting that nature can create and I can't help stop clicking it. On the way to Pame, I went there one evening last week along with some photojournalists friend from Pokhara.

Lonely: A boat harbored for days otherwise animated with huge flow of tourists in Few Lake in Pokhara.

Beauty getting robbed: Water plants rapidly encroaching the beauty of Few Lake.

Upside down: Reflection of Barahi Temple of Pokhara.

Mirror perspective.

Assignment Ason

2010-08-31T10:20:00.006+05:45

Ason is the most famous marketplace of Kathmandu and it is perfect location for photo assignment. This morning (23 August 2010) I went there with my participants of SCC Basic Photography Workshop and these are some of my capture.

Colorful Traditional shop in Ason chok, Kathmandu where you can buy all kind of offering for God.

Fresh vegetables waits its customers near Ason Chok.

A women wearing vivid color rush for home after selling vegetables in Ason. Nepal is know for colorful ethnic clothes like these and everyday story of her makes Ason a place of everyday carnival.

Lentil time of the year to boost your protein intake. Lentil packed with nine kind of grains on display.

Shambu Chaudary giving me re-pose infront of his fish shop banner at Ason and I promised him to make one print of it.

Ason hums nonstop with a pleasant disorder of shopper and colorful festivities accessories like these for upcoming Gai Jatra, give more vibrancy.

Birjung Grooming on Photojournalism

2010-08-10T16:59:00.001+05:45

Media Training Centre/NEFEJ is conducting a week long training/workshop on photojournalism in Birgunj. There are 14 local journalists/reporters from various local papers who are also working for National Dailies published from Kathmandu. Min Ratna Bajracharya, photojournalist and Chairman of National Forum of Photojournalist (NFPJ) and Jitendra Raj Bajracharya are its trainers.

Photography Workshop for SOS Children

2010-06-30T10:23:00.002+05:45

Online Jouralism Kick Off at MTC/NEFEJ

2010-06-22T08:17:00.009+05:45

With the objective of building the capacity of journalists 3 days training/workshop begins here at Media Training Centre (MTC) of Nepal Forum of Environmental Journalist (NEFEJ) yesterday. The theme of this training is “Post Conflicts and Human rights” in the light of its importance. There are 18 participants from different media houses and online news portals.

Mr. Sahaj Man Shrestha coordinator of MTC welcoming Guests,Participants and Journalist at the Opening session of 3 days long training/workshop on online journalism.

Photography Workshop with SOS Children

2010-04-09T17:48:00.004+05:45

]

Larger Picture

2010-02-05T15:56:00.003+05:45

Here is this little girl who is struggling to carry the log home. But this is only part of the picture. The larger story is paragliding operators who have not only arrived in Sarangkot of Pokhara but are determined to clear the swathe of land conserved as community forest. Their modus operandi is simple: cut down the young trees and supply the wood to the villagers who conserved it and at a price which is down to Rs. 10 a load from Rs.80 previously. What is not in these pictures yet are foreign tourists who will be gliding down merrily ahead.

Originally posted in Everest Uncensored (www.everestuncensored.org)

Jubilant Photo Journalists

2009-12-27T16:09:00.003+05:45

It was such a experience of thrill to be there in the longest beach of the world. Cox Bazar.

Ten Astounding Pigeon Fact

2009-11-18T12:01:00.010+05:45

1. Reuters used them: The world's most famous news agency was founded in 1850 and employed 45 feathered messengers.

2. They read maps: Their homing skills are still a mystery, but a 10-year Oxfor university study concluded they use roads to navigate, even turning corners at junctions.

3. They were the original email: in the early 1800s, the Rothschilds set up a network of pigeon lofts at all their European financial houses.

4. The Queen loves them: Not only does Her Majesty fancy them, but Mike Tyson is a fan. Plus, Maurizio Gucci once spent $10,000 on an American pigeon.

5. They're clever: Pigeons are one of the only nine amimals (and the only non-mammal) that can recognise itself in a mirror.

6. They bob their heads for a reason: Their side-mounted eyes give them monocular vision, unlike the binocular vision of humans and owls, so they bob for depth perception.

7. They're holy: Many religious groups, including Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs, feed pigeons for religious reasons. Remember that the next time you shoo one.

8. They're heroes: Several pigeons have been decorated in wartime, saving thousands of lives by delivering urgent messages under fire.

9. Their waste is invaluable: in the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries pigeon excrement was a valuable fertiliser protected by armed guards.

10. They're precious: The world's most expensive pigeon was bought by a British stud farm for £106,000.

(Info sourse: Short List Magazine: www.shortlist.com)

Journey to Jiri

2009-10-04T14:27:00.011+05:45

This journey to Dolakha - Jiri, the gateway for the exploration of Mt. Everest region, historical monasteries, unique traditions, hidden mountains, valleys was a plan we Ujwol(Friend)and I made in no time and it was beautiful ride on his 'Santro' to Jiri.

It is easily accessible from Kathmandu, driving through another 3 districts, Bhaktapur, Kavre & Sindhupalchowk while exploring the mountains, Jungles and rivers.It was our first trip to Jiri and initially we were skeptical about the roads but it was all good.

Jiri lies in the eastern Nepal, 190Kms from Kathmandu. It is situated in the snow mountain surrounded district of Dolkha.

Little playful company we have while warming up ourselves by chimney at Horse Shoe Mountain Resort at Mode the first night.

Photography Participant in Patan

2009-08-30T16:21:00.008+05:45

Klaus Stafto having fun discovering lots wonderful options and possibilities in his toy (Nikon D300).

Reflection on a brass plate engraved 'Patan Museum' amuses Sarmila Manandhar.

Dhiraj Shrestha not just love to be a stylish guy but also love to take picture in STYLE.

Rahul Muni Bajracharya exploring Cannon's legendary lens.

Mamata Ojha trying to reflect reality.

Shoot left Anubhav and shoot right Manjil Ghimire while Dr. Claus is busy talking to Uttam.

Dr. Rudiger Claus with participants at Patan Darbar Square.

Seminar on Photojournalism for Beginners Begins.

2009-08-26T16:17:00.009+05:45

Executive member Ananda Shrestha welcoming Dr. Rudiger Claus in the formal program. Photo: Narendra Shrestha.

After a short formal opening session 10 days long seminar for beginners: photography Training begins this morning in Nepal Forum of Environmental Journalists (NEFEJ. Dr. Rudiger Claus, Director of International Institute of Journalism, Berlin-Brandenburg, (IIJB) Germany along with other senior Nepalese Photojournalist. There are 15 participants from different media houses and other several organization. Training is jointly organized by Media Training Center (MTC)NEFEJ and IIJB.

Participants introducing before the seminar starts.

Seminar will go on till 7th of September 2009 and participant will learn basics of photojournalism and how to master the tool they have to click better picture with a clear message. Without a doubt this seminar will help these budding photographer to know photography in a digital way and know the genre of photojournalism.

The Seminar/Training is sponsored by Rosa Luxembourg Foundation (RSL).

Clicking Babies

2009-08-10T13:14:00.013+05:45

If any photographic situation calls for a greater degree of sensitivity than usual, it is when photographing babies. Here are some pictures I took yesterday evening of my 17 hours old nephew.

Warning: Using direct flash light to photographs babies it too risky job because light that emit by camera flash or additional flash is too harsh for babies delicate eyes and could easily damage their eyes permanently. So NEVER EVER use direct flash light to photographs infant. Try to shoot with available light, perhaps daylight coming through a window balanced on the shadow side by using reflector.

It is a incredible moment for me to see 'this will' of my 17 hours old nephew, who is summing up strength to lift his head to look who clicking his photos. While photographing babies and children always look out for such special moment when they glance at you and give million dollar expression.

Baudhanath Stupa Getting Facelift

2009-06-10T13:02:00.002+05:45

Birgunj Workshop Concluded

2009-05-12T09:45:00.012+05:45

Seven day long workshop on photojournalism in Brigunj was a great success and turn out to be very productive for local photojournalists and journalist from Birgjunj. Workshop was organized by Media Training Centre/NEFEJ with the cooperation of National Forum of Photo Journalists (NFPJ) and supported by Rosa Luxemburg Foundation, Germany. Eighty five percent of participants tick this workshop as very productive in their feedback. Despite long distance they had to come attend workshop in such a humid weather, not a single participant complains about it but rather were asking organizer to prolong the workshop. It is very encouraging aspect of the workshop in Birgunj.

Participants on drill: fake accident created in the main road where participants were taught how to cover photos in such difficult situation. And it was a very new experience for all participants. They were also taught some safety measures they should have while covering such situation. Mr. Dhuraba Ale, photojournalist trainer coordinated the drill.

Mr. Bhupendra Basnet MTC coordinator putting forward his short speech at the closing session of workshop.

Deependra Bajracharya General Secretary of NFPJ giving away certificate to participant.

Raju Shrestha giving away certificate to participants in closing session of workshop.

Workshop was conducted by photojournalist trainers, Rajbhai Suwal, Bikash Rauniar, Dhurba Ale, Deependra Bajracharya and it was locally coordinated by Prabin Manandhar, Pankaj Shrestha. All the local newspaper including some national daily has published news stressing this a week long workshop as one of well organized training for journalist in Birgunj till date.

Photojournalism Workshop in Birgunj

2009-05-04T14:40:00.005+05:45

Workshop on Photojournalism kick off in Birgunj. A week long workshop is organized by MTC/Nepal Forum of Environmental Journalists (NEFEJ) and National Forum of Journalist (NFPJ) for photojournalist/journalist start from 2 of May 2009. There are 22 photojournalist/journalists from Birgunj. Workshop is being conducted by Bikash Rauniar, Photo Editor, Kantipur publication, Rajbhai Suwal, senior photojournalist/glamour photographer and Dhurba Ale, photojournalist from The Himilanyan Times/Annapurna.

In a formal opening session of photojournalism workshop a moment of silence for localbase Photojournalist Subodh Singh who passed away alast year.

Participants are as follows, Participant list:
Jagat Rai, Diwakar Bhandari, Jitlal Shrestha, Basanta Khatiwada, Shashi Bichitra, Manish Paudel, Ram Chettry, Shekar Chatkulli, Pawan Tiwari, Gynendra Mishra, Naresh Saraf, Mohomad Saddaf, Safal Khatiwada, Faujulla Allam, Bijay Chauhan, Bimi Paudel, Rasahana Dhakal, Nitesh Mathema, Ram Saraf and Pankaj Shrestha

Workshop is supported by Rosa Luxemburg Foundation, Germany. Workshop is locally coordinated by Praveen Manandhar, NFPJ Member.

Love me Tender

2009-04-22T15:36:00.000+05:45

Pair of pigeon sharing love.

Photo from Nepal in RSL, Berlin

2009-04-05T02:41:00.008+05:45

Photo exhibition was inaugurated at Rosa Luxemburg Foundation in Berlin. Exhibited all pictures were taken by Nepalese photojournalists who have participated IIJB/NEFEJ’s photojournalism training last year. Pictures will be on display in the Rosa Luxemburg Foundation for few months. After then it will be exhibited in Kathmandu.

Final Day of TOT Seminar 2009

2009-04-05T00:29:00.001+05:45

Group shot after Closing ceremony of Training of Trainers 2009 on Photojournalism. In picture from left: Siddhartha K. Shakya, Ms. Angelika Schulze, Peter May, Mukunda Bogati, Narendra Shrestha, Chandra Shekar Karki, Dr. Rudiger Claus, Bimal Chandra Sharma, V. Bode and Benjamin Claus.

Chandra Shekar Karki, giving thank you speech after certificate 'Training of Trainers Seminar 2009' distribution ceremony.

Dinner at Karlmarx Allee 94

2009-04-04T00:02:00.012+05:45

Nepali Khana in Berlin

2009-03-31T03:57:00.014+05:45

We participants were invited by Sarad Paudel ji at Nepalese Embassy for Nepali Khana. And I know for sure our word falls short to thank Sarad dai for this wonderful invitation of Nepali Khana at his place. He is very good hearted person. We are also thankful to Bhauju for preapring such a delicious Nepali Khana for us. Thank you on behalf of all ToT particiapnts.

Sarad Paudel ji from Nepalese Embassy narriting his heart touching poems in his apartment.

Infront of Nepalease Embassy.

Group picture for memory.

With very smart Akanchhya (cute daughter of Sarad ji) to whom I share some drawing skills.

Berlin bear infront of Nepalese Embassy.

Church of Dresdren

2009-03-28T06:09:00.007+05:45

Delighting Dresden

2009-03-28T05:11:00.013+05:45

Dresden is the capital city of the German Federal Free State of Saxony. It is situated in a valley on the River Elbe. The Dresden capital is part of the Saxon Triangle metropolitan area.
Dresden has a long history as the capital and royal residence for the Electors and Kings of Saxony, who for centuries furnished the city with cultural and artistic splendor.

The "Church of Our Lady" is a Lutheran church in Dresden, Germany. This church survived the firebombing of Dresden during World War II but was totally burned out and collapsed the next day. It has been reconstructed as a landmark symbol of reconciliation between former warring enemies.

The reconstruction of its exterior was completed in 2004, its interior in 2005 and after 13 years of rebuilding, the church was re-consecrated on 30 October 2005 with festive services lasting through the Protestant observance of Reformation Day on 31 October.

The controversial bombing of Dresden in World War II by the United States Army Air Forces and the Royal Air Force, 40 years in the Soviet bloc state of the German Democratic Republic and contemporary city development has changed the face of the city broadly. Considerable restoration work has helped restore the city to its pre-war glory.

Since German reunification in 1990, Dresden has re-emerged as a cultural, political and economic centre in the eastern part of Germany.

In the backdrop seen the bridge across the Elbe in Dresden

World Time Clock in Berlin

2009-03-26T18:25:00.010+05:45

The World Time Clock is one of the Alexanderplatz's (center point of Berlin) most well-known features. It was constructed in 1969 as part of the square's redevelopment and has become a popular meeting point.
Weighing 16 tonnes and 10 metres tall, it features a revolving cylinder with the world's 24 time zones bearing the names of major cities in each zone. I wish it has also time of Kathmandu, Nepal. :( The mechanism constructed in a way which enables the current time in each zone to be read.

The clock is topped by a simplified model of the solar system, which revolves once a minute.

At night.

With TV tower in the backdrop.

Portraits of Peter

2009-03-26T18:06:00.004+05:45

Trip to TV Tower of Berlin

2009-03-25T03:09:00.013+05:45

TV Tower of Berlin, I guess one who have been to Berlin don’t miss to visit the tallest tower of the city. No doubt it’s at the top of every visitor‘s agenda who visit Berlin. So, how can I miss such an opportunity. By the way, this is my second trip to TV tower. Here’s some pictures that I have captures this evening. Enjoy a breathtaking view across the city from the 203-meter-high Panorama floor or the 207-meter-high which consists of Telecafé and revolving restaurant.

Tourist enjoying the view from TV Tower

Lost in wonder of TV Tower

Inside view of TV Tower.

Revolving resturant of TV Tower.

View of sunset from TV Tower.

The Fernsehturm (German for "television tower") is a television tower in the city centre of Berlin, Germany. This well-known landmark, close to Alexanderplatz, was constructed between 1965 and 1969 by the former German Democratic Republic (GDR). The GDR administration intended it as a symbol of Berlin, which it remains today, as it is easily visible throughout the central and some suburban districts of Berlin. (Source: Wiki)

Mr. Kraemer who made this trip to TV Tower possible and very very informative. Mr. Kraemer has photographed TV Tower during it's construction. His photo archrive of TV Tower during it's construction is displayed to at the toursit information center till today.

First Glimpse of Snowfall

2009-03-24T19:35:00.007+05:45

It is shree pleasure to see these tiny speck of snow showring from sky. Very exciting for all of us 'ToT Participants'. Let me share some pictures captured by Chandra Shekar dai few minutes ago. Weather here in Berlin is really unpredictable.

Bimal Dai trying to feel the snow.

Leaning Photojournalism with Mr. Peter May

2009-03-23T22:13:00.006+05:45

Berlin on Bike

2009-03-23T02:28:00.007+05:45

Official site of Berlin on Bike stated that half of Berlin's households don't own a car. The city is flat, green, and highly accessible by bike with lanes and quiet streets. Berliners like to bike for sure. You can see lot's of bikes.

Saw this group tourist on bikes yesterday evening and such tours last for four hours and they go about 10 miles cycling countless entertaining and informative places of Berlin.

Such tour on bike lets tourist see the real life and housing conditions in the metropolis, including Berlin’s bars, lounges and dance clubs. They also do classic sightseeing as well, visiting the splendid legacies of the mighty Prussian kings or riding along the former Berlin Wall.

Check my previous blog about Bike and Cycling.

Brandenburg Gate

2009-03-23T02:04:00.000+05:45

Sunset in Hoppegarten

2009-03-22T16:13:00.009+05:45

This is exactly sky view of Hoppegarten, Berlin when Sun sets in yesterday evening.

Few minutes before the sunset.

Awesome Niederfinow Boat Lift

2009-03-22T03:02:00.012+05:45

This is the Niederfinow boat lift, one of the oldest boat lift in Germany. After a brief information from our respected trainer Mr. Peter May we headed toward Niederfinow in Brandenburg to take some photos of Niederfinow Boat Lift which lies on the Oder-Havel-Kanal. The lift overcomes a difference in elevation of 44m.

On 17 June the large navigation between Berlin and Stettin was opened. Near Niederfinow the difference in elevation was overcome using a staircase lock with four chambers. One can still visit the remains of these locks today (seen in the foreground of the accompanying aerial photograph).

The capacity of the staircase locks was quickly exceeded, therefore, between 1927 and 1934 the boat lift was built and inaugurated on 21 March 1934. The lift is 60 m high, the length 94 m, taking five minutes for the trough to move through the 36m elevation difference.

Picture from inside the lift structure.

The boat lift consists of 14,000 Tonnes of riveted structural steelwork standing on steel columns. The Oder-Havel-Kanal approaches the head of the lift on a 4,000 Tonne riveted steelwork aqueduct. The trough when filled weighs 4,290 tonnes and hangs on 256 steel cables, these cross over guide rollers and support 192 counterweights which balance the trough. The security of the lift is maintained by keeping half the cables in tension and the other half relaxed in reserve. The guide rollers have a diameter of 3.5m.

Pin gearing with D.C.motors in Leonards electric motor speed controllers, connected together by a shaft allow a symmetrical drive. This arrangement allows the exact synchronisation of the four pin gears. The four Leonard controllers each have an output of 55 kilowatts totalling 220 kilowatts. Four worm geared shafts are driven which intersect with internal threads built into the troughs. These move freely under normal circumstances but would seize if a cable broke providing extra safety.

Steel construction of the upper aqueduct.

ToT participants visting the Niederfinow Boat Lift.

Visit to C/O Berlin

2009-03-21T04:33:00.004+05:45

C/O Berlin Gallery where we went to see some great pictures of Annie Leibovitz.

Dr. Claus leading us to the C/O Gallery.

Learning Do's & Don'ts of Moderators

2009-03-21T03:46:00.011+05:45

Ms. Angelika sharing some guru mantras to ToT participants in her second lecture on 'Adult teaching methods'.

These are some notes I made and some drawings I draw during seminar lecture.

There are different types of people and obviously different types of trainee. Here I have predicted some personality among we ToT participants.

Book cover of Michael Langford's Basic Photogrpahy which has so much to teach us.

Tireee Pireee at Bowling Center

2009-03-20T03:26:00.012+05:45

‘Tireee Pireee’ We enjoyed singing this caricature song by Haribansha (the great TV comedian of Nepal) during our evening out in Bowling center near IIJB, Hoppegarten. Seeing us we Nepali participants singing this song aloud in the bowling center even Ms. Angelika got so curious to know. She asked me‘Jiten! Is this ‘Tireee Pireee’ is a lullaby?

Bimal dai making his strike.

Mukunda too making his strike but don't tell anyone he has one bowl hidden inside his pullover. Just in case he misses one..

Chandra Shekar dai, trying to hit the bull's eye.

Narendra exchanging some trick and trade of bowling at the Bowling center with a local english teacher and her student.

Alexender clicking some snapshots during bowling this evening.

Point and shoot is not easy for shutterbug like us who's much more familier with DSLR.

It was nice to have Benjamin (son of Dr. Claus in middle)with us at Bowling center this evening.

Learning to teach Adult with Angelika

2009-03-20T02:16:00.013+05:45

It was a big surprise for us to see Ms. Angelika Schulze demonstrated how to cut photographs into pieces, instead of how to make photographs at the beginning of her lecture on ‘Learning and Teaching with Adults’. Actually she did that just for a puzzle to solve as‘break-the-ice’ among participants to whom we will be teaching photography back home.

Ms. Agelika Schulze briefing participants about do's and don't of Trainer during conducting training.

'Adults are babies with big bodies' Interesting right? Well this is what we learn from Ms. Angelika's handouts.

And here we are learning to teach those babies in adults. (In picture: Siddhartha dai in concentration and me giving a million dollor smile to Chandra Shekar dai)

Narendra (left) finds something funny among Bimal dai and Siddhartha dai.

Polishing Portrait with Kraemer

2009-03-20T01:25:00.009+05:45

Mr. Kraemer showing studio lights to participants. (In the picture: Left Dr. Rudiger Claus and Siddhartha dai at the right)

This is the outcome Siddhartha dai made after Kraemer's portrait lecture lesson. What do you think? Good portrait .. uhm.

Visit to The German Times

2009-03-18T22:30:00.010+05:45

Bimal dai got reflected in one of world's best car's brand.

Bimal dai, Narendra and Chandra Shekar dai, ready to roll.

Musing myself Olympus camer in a coffee jar.

Mr. Rudiger Rossig the senior editor of The German Times showing a computer print of The German Times (only english monthly newspaper in Germany), which he just edited and set for final printing.

Siddhartha dai, feeling proud.

The Grapic designer of The German Times newspaper demonstrated participants how to calibrate computer computer monitor for best color resolution for working graphic.

Mr. Rudiger Rossig sharing the work chart of The German Times.

TV tower of Berlin next to old cherch.

Remaining of Berlin Wall as bitter memories.

TV Tower at center of Berlin

The Berlin Breakfast

2009-03-18T22:23:00.005+05:45

Berlin After Sunset

2009-03-18T02:50:00.012+05:45

This is how IIJB Building looks like after sunset. Took this picture couple of hours before we went to Alexanderplatz.

Shopping mall at the Alexanderplatz.

Saturn another shopping mall which is schedule to open on 24 March 2009.

World time tower.

One of the hotel at Alexanderplatz and Galeria Shopping mall where you can do shopping the whole day.

In front of Media Market. (From left Mukunda, Bimal dai, Narendra,Chandra Sheker dai and Siddhartha dai.

And this is sBan (Train).

Nearest train station "Brinkinstine" from IIJB building.

Train station at Alexanderplatz.
Tunnel road in Alexanderplatz.

Second Day of Seminar

2009-03-17T18:30:00.010+05:45

Narendra, Bimal dai, Siddhartha dai and myself, pretty engrossed.

Mukunda and Narendra having fun with point and shoot camera. It's entry level camera and this is what we will be teaching to use many photojournalists back home.

Siddhartha dai peering a closer look at projected presentation of Dr. Claus.

In a IIJB's computer lab working and surfing. And here is Siddhartha dai busy sending SMSs back home vai wadja.

Bimal dai, sharing card reader to upload all these pictures.

It's not a Gun Chandra Shekar dai, trying to pull but his new toy, Point and shoot camera to show some of his shots.

Bear Hugs

2009-03-17T01:10:00.002+05:45

Well when I was here in Berlin in 2007 this Bear was so little that I can take it in my lap and now..

Press Photographers Seminar Begins

2009-03-16T21:07:00.015+05:45

ToT participants keeping ‘Perfect focus’ not just while taking pictures but also in Dr. Claus’s presentation.

Director of IIJB and Chief trainer of Press Photographer ToT seminar 2009, Dr. Rudiger Claus delivering welcome speech before formal lunch with our guest from Rosa Luxemburg, Ms. Songa Blasig.

After opening session of Press photographer ToT seminar 2009 we had deciduous lunch and this group shot in front of IIJB building with a guest, Ms. Songa Blasig from Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung. (In the picture from left: Chandra Shekar Karki, Siddhartha K. Shakya, Mr. Peter May, Ms. Songa Blasig , Dr. Rudiger Claus, Bimal Chandra Sharma, Ms. Angelika Sculze, Narendra Shrestha and I.)

Mr. Peter May said, Photojournalist should be not just a clicker but also a thinker. I see a great thinker within our senior participant, Chandra Shekar dai. (Our one of favorite trainer here in IIJB in background.)

Smiling Ms. Songa got sandwiched by beer. If you just see the face of Ms. Songa then look closely, you may see other two face in the beer glass.

Not so regular portrait of Ms. Songa Blasig from Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung.

Siddhartha dai, finds something funny in photography magazine Dr. Claus broughts for us, while Bimal dai seem lost in thoughts behind.

An Evening at Brandenburg Gate

2009-03-15T23:43:00.013+05:45

The Brandenburg Gate, the Brandenburger Tor in Berlin is one of the first landmarks that comes to mind when thinking of Germany. And even it was my first day of arrival in Berlin I let not slip away this opportunity to takes some pictures and chase my jetlag away. Went with all participants except Chandra Shekar dai who prefer to get a good nap then going out in the cold.

In the course of German history, the Brandenburg Gate played a lot of different roles; its latest and most famous role: The peaceful symbol of the reunification of East and West Germany and the end of the cold war. I certainly feel respect for such a historic significance of Germany.

Tricycle for Tourist. No doubt an environment friendly choice to promote tourism.

Young people having good time around Brandenburg gate with their friends. Since today is holiday they all seem much ease and relax. Today evening it was cold and windy but people were having wonderful time there enjoying street music, taking pictures, taking portraits .. and so on.

Find the fake statu among these two standing army? If you can't check the picture below which will give the clue. :)

TOT Participants in Berlin

2009-03-15T16:34:00.006+05:45

After total 12 hours of flight via Qatar Airways (5:15 hours from Kathmandu - Doha) and (6:05 hours from Doha - Berlin) we participants of ToT Seminar for press photographers reached Berlin all safe and sound.

Dr. Rudiger Claus, director of International Institute of Journalism Berlin, briefing ToT seminar schedule to participants.

Ms. Angelika giving instruction to participants on accomodation, transportation tickets, choice of food etc.

Group shot for procuctive ToT seminar.

First picture from my room which I took after reaching IIJB, Hoppegarten Berlin.

Self-portrait with Shrivalli

2009-03-12T13:11:00.002+05:45

Being a kid is always fun and 'heart lifting'. It is such a joy to dip into children's world and see life through their innocent perspective.

I took this portrait our cute Shrivalli chori (Prabin & Sangeeta's daughter) this Holi in their dwelling at Galfutar, Kathmandu.

This is 'Suka dhiju' Shrivalli's perfect company, without whom Shrivalli would loose her half world.

Sparrow Sparring

2008-12-01T13:26:00.003+05:45

I am not sure why these house sparrows are brawling. May be it is survival tactic as saying goes, 'Survival of the fittest'. Interesting things for me was I never witnessed such 'Kung fu' move made by these less aggressive native birds which we see almost everyday.Took these pictures out of my curiosity to make use of sick leave productively because I got unwell and have to take rest at home for 2 days.

Mountain Bike Mela at Chobhar, Kathmandu

2008-11-09T10:02:00.027+05:45

Participants of Elite Women's Cross Courntry race at the 14th Mountain Bike Championship in Chobhar, Kathmandu, on Saturday. Nirjala Tamrakar, only one female participant from Nepal.
Chengyuan Ren quecnhing the thirst second after winning gold medal in the Elite Women's section. Chengyuan talking to media persons. Ren Chengyuan of China, who had finished fifth in the Beijing Olympics, won the women's cross country beating 11 other participants with a timing of 1 hour 34 mins 24 seconds. Liu Ying and Shi Qinglan also from China took second and third positions respectively with timing of 1 hour 37 mins 11 secs and 1 hour 38 mins 59 secs. The Elite Men's Catagory.Nepalease participants Dhanit Rai, Dipendra Bajracharya, Suresh Kumar Dulal and Padam Limbu taking rest before race starts.Chobar served as a perfect venue for the championship with the presence of hundreds of enthusiastic spectators, making the event a worthwile experience to all the participants.Xue Li Jiang of China taking the lead in the Elite Men's cross country race.Two time Asian Champion Jiang Xue Li won in the men's section clocking 1 hour 54 mins 51 secs ahead of 30 other participants. Yamamoto Kohel of Japan finished second with timing of 1 hour 55 mins 52 secs and Chan Chun Hing trailed him at the third position clocking 1 hour 56 mins 52 secs.

Faces From Teej Festival

2008-09-12T13:42:00.003+05:45

Mercy on Peaceful Protest

2008-08-11T10:41:00.009+05:45

Beating is beating and the pain it causes can't be an act of fake. That's how I felt while taking pictures of Tibetans protest near Chinese Embassy, Kathmandu last Saturday by chance. Many assume these ongoing protests as political dramas. As Olympic fever raises around the globe there has been even more series of Tibetans Protest in Kathmandu. I don't know who's the mastermind behind all these protest and what motivates these Tibetans to face such brutality but the way Nepal security forces handle them is a serious violation of Nepal's international human rights obligations.

It was so disheartening to witness this merciless beating on Tibetans protestors, who were protesting in a peaceful way. Bruised legs and hands, broken bones and blood trickling down from their heads can trouble any heart who supports for peace. One of the protestor was saying to police, 'जत्ती पिट्न मनलाग्छ पिट्नुस्'. (Beat me as much as you can). And security personal were thrashing protestor's legs with a bamboo stick inhumanly.

There must be some strong political motivations and certain conspiracy for those Tibetans to use Nepal's territory in organizing demonstrations. And why Nepal's government is intimated allowing people to carry such peaceful protest? I guess these are burning issues that my level of understanding may not be able to find right answers, but as a supporter of Peace, I object this unfair approach in suppressing protestors voices who simple were chanting slogan, "Free Tibet".

Almost every day Tibetan monks, refugees and supporters gather in front of the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu to protest China's violent crackdown in Tibet and beating start without mercy.

Please stop!!!

Ian Baker's Collection: Legal or Illigal?

2008-05-25T08:59:00.003+05:45

1st National Rafting Championship

2008-04-06T12:21:00.006+05:45

Last four decades rafters and kayakers have appreciated the white waters of Nepal from all over. The Nepali river guides have been prized for taming the wild Himalayan Rivers.

Yet, we have not produced one national team to represent Nepal in the international rafting championships. A core objective to this event is to build a national team that will represent Nepal in the forthcoming international championships. The other objectives are to raise awareness about rafting as a sport that is so easy accessible and that this can be a rewarding career option amongst the Nepali Youth. (Text Credit: Himalayan River Guide Association Nepal HARGAN)

'Youth Green Circle' Lunched

2008-01-27T09:55:00.000+05:45

It's not 'Environment Day' 6th of June but a bunch of Youths yesterday organized 'Green Party' to lunch this project called 'Youth Green Circle' which aims to promote recycle culture to make this Earth a better place to live in. Band Neiipal performing

2007-11-05T09:40:00.000+05:45

2007-09-12T12:58:00.000+05:45

Participant of 'Personality Development Schooling @ Royal Beach Camp 2007. Participant from Birjung, Ilam and Kathmandu. Ramhari Silwal (Director of Royal Beach Camp) briefing on river safty guides before participant proceed for river games. Team N, C and K competing for better score on a ‘Makeshift Raft’. Ramhari keeping watchful eyes on participants swimming in Trishuli. 'Night-Line'where we try to take participant back to basic of human senses. 'Rrossing the River' to test the creativity and ideas of teams.

tilled earth but barren kathmandu

2007-08-12T16:38:00.000+05:45

Nimbus cloud hovered over Kathmandu sky but it dared not to drench me as I cycled towards British Council Library one evening to hear Manjushree Thapa. She was scheduled to recite some pages of her recent book ‘tilled earth’ that evening. Dusty roads and polluted air, reckless drivers honking, hip-hop generation speeding their pulsar like in hell, Kathmanduties seem on a big brawl to break civic law, it was total chaos picture. Every individual looks like dummies trotting, who forget to smile for ages. Many times I take time to watch people and try to read minds. Truly happy hearts are uncommon commodity. Indeed it is spine-tingling to wander into the “real” Kathmandu.

Nothing has been changed, neither British Council nor Kathmandu. Then I consoled myself calmly not to get irritated realizing this incomparable difference between Berlin (one of the most beautiful city of Europe that I recently been to) and Kathmandu (where I live with my hopes and dreams). I sighed to myself, ‘jay hos Kathmandu’ and sat in a vacant chair at corner of the library. I was an hour early of schedule so try to spend time surfing books in the library.
Manjushree Thapa, consider one of the prominent writer of Nepal. I read Thapa's book 'Forget Kathmandu: An Elegy For Democracy in Nepal' and her several write ups in various newspapers and it captivated me. I like her imaginative ways in investigating human parade subjectively. This is one reason, I got curious to hear her and get her new book 'tilled earth'.

That evening she read us, "Love Marriage". One of the longest stories in the book. Besides she also shared about her writing in the context of Nepal today. It was almost dark when I went back home owning a copy 'tilled earth' signed by Manjushree Thapa.

... and My Eyes Got Wet.

2007-07-23T13:40:00.000+05:45

It was a weary day
Dreams drained,
life seems so bane.
Lonesome dusk;
An stranger asked,
* How was your day?
... and my eyes got wet.

It was no jolly me
Broken, lost and lonely
struggling to breathe.
Suffocated heartbeats;
A SMILE greets,
* How are you?
... and my eyes got wet.

It was a cyber world
Eyes tired,
I became so lull.
Monotonous life;
An email inquired,
* Are you taking care of yourself?
... and my eyes got wet.

It was a photo assignment
Moments captured,
drifted memories.
Dear old stories;
A guest offered,
* Do you want a glass of water?
... and my eyes got wet.

It was a lonely trip
Trails trodden,
crumbled destinations.
Melancholy walk;
A milky way above assisted,
* Are you lost?
... and my eyes got wet.

It was a selfish world
Heart numbed,
busy people.
Wounded feeling,
A loving sis from Korea cared,
* Do you need my hug?
... and my eyes got wet.

It was her birthday
Gifts and chocolates dumped,
wishes were frown.
All faked love;
A small boy phoned,
* Do you want to watch Art-attack show?
... and my eyes got wet.

It was a fleeting moment
Life's faded colors,
saturated pictures.
Wrong composition;
An innocent buddy expects my unborn baby,
* When is your big day?
... and my eyes got wet.

It was a dull dawn
Crushed sentiments,
Rain, thunder and storm.
Abandoned soul;
A stereo echoed a song
* "You are not alone"
... and my eyes got wet.

It was a Christmas Eve
Festive mood fouled,
False promises.
Church pitch dark,
A little sweet girl approached,
* Do you want to light one candle?
... and my eyes got wet.

It was a days-out camp
Faraway land,
peaceful night.
Mother Nature incarnates;
A shooting star sailed,
* Do you want to make a wish?
... and my eyes got wet.

Wet eyes, all tears,
Flood away my dark days
Bringing me sunshine
That never leaves me in the cold.

Auf Wieder Sehen Berlin!

2007-06-22T23:31:00.001+05:45

Auf Wieder Sehen Berlin! See you again Berlin!

Yesterday it was a big day for me, a final day of my training on photojournalism here in Berlin and we had a nice cozy final ceremony. Program started with welcome speech by Ms Angelika And I had this pleasure to share special cookies (Lakhamari) to the chief guest, IIJB officials, teachers and participants, which I brought from back home. Dr. Ruediger Claus even quoted while we were about to toast Champaign, “You can find finest Champaign of the world anytime but you cannot find this special cookies Jitendra brought all the way from his home and from his heart, Cheers!!” And we all toasted Champaign with Newari Lakhamari. The Chief guest handed over the diploma certificates to all participants. And of course some photo session of the group then ceremony proceeded to delicious lunch. We all enjoyed such a lavish lunch with beer, wine and juice.
Receiving congratulation from Dr. Ruediger Claus, director of IIJB. Good wishes from Ms. Angelika Schulze. Mr. Georg Krause handshake for more solid confidence that I have in this passion of photography. Mr. Krause inspired me a lot and he's like a friend to me and his guidance was highly appriciated. With friends from North Korea Mr. Choe Han Il , Ms.Angelikaand Mr.Hong Myong Il. Giving souvenir “Statue of Buddha” to the Guest. Mr. Peter May who made this photojournalism training a difference. I have learnt so much from him and I enjoyed every single minute of his class. Since I am so quick to predict what to look for in pictures, he gave me the name ”Eyes of an Eagle” . I am simply moved by his depth of knowledge and wisdom in the field of photojournalism and I really really felt so honored to be one of his students. He definitely is one of my best teacher in life. Saying good-bye is always hard thing to do in life but we all were so happy to earn this new enthusiasm and confidence in us from the training.

Rain & Music Festival in Berlin

2007-06-22T13:43:00.001+05:45

Berlin is a place on earth with full of festivals happening every month and yesterday it was another festival that rocked Berlin. More then 200 musical bands were gathered at various parts of Berlin city and preformed enticing music that made people to brave any bad weather. It was a cold rainy day but they proved their love for music coming out in the rain. Indeed Berlin appeals to music lovers of all genres. Well you have to be here to feel MUSIC that goes straightly to your heart. Some of my favorite days in Berlin were summer days, a downpour followed by sunshine and rainbows. And of course, walking on my own around downtown watching city life which always enthused my eyes. Well now it’s time to say good-bye to Berlin and I am full of words in heart. I wish I could express them all here but will do that in coming days. Once I back home. Indeed I have cashed so many wonderful memories and the positive vibe inside me to push the limit for rest of my life. Karina: A Friend from Potsdam, enjoying the thrill of music festival. Daphna very lively person with such talanted voice.

Some Highlights of Berlin

2007-06-19T01:27:00.000+05:45

Samba Syndrom is a festival celebrating samba groups from across Europe, held at Berlin's Landesmusikakademie.
The Berlin-Müggelberge TV tower is the 31 meters tall base of a tower, never completed, in the Müggel hills of southeast Berlin, Germany. The tower base is currently used as radio relay link station.

The tower was originally planned as the TV tower for Berlin. It was to have a total height of 425 feet (130 meters) with an observation platform at 230 feet (70 meters).

After construction was started in 1954, a survey indicated that the tower would endanger aircraft on approach to the Berlin-Schoenefeld airport. For this reason, on 13 December 1955 construction was stopped The Victory Column: A 220-foot column topped with a gilt statue of the Goddess of Victory. It is located in the middle of the Tier-garten, a beautiful park in pre-war Berlin, which was almost completely destroyed during the war. Replanting was begun in 1949.

Jitu'cha: In & Out of Frame

2007-06-15T02:14:00.000+05:45

It was this huge framed flex print of Brandenburg gate which attracted my attention at first and just when I approached to take some snaps this boy wearing full black dress find me curious and entered into my frame as if he loves to flirt with my composition. And in photojournalism that’s what we say a “FRIUTFUL MOMENT”. Being a photojournalist we wait for such moment and spice up little drama to the picture. And guess what when I turned around back one of my friend from India Lalit Sharmawas trying to keep me into his frame and he too find it a fruitful moment because of another local photographer was finding another frame of fruitful moment at the back. I thinks these all are interesting shot for you to gawk sometime.

Yellow Rose & Peter Joshep Lenne’ Oberschule

2007-06-14T01:26:00.000+05:45

Yellow Roses and wonderful interaction program today. I enjoyed a lot visiting Peter Joshep Lenne’ Oberschule School and talking to many interesting students there. We went there at 9:30 morning and it was part of our course that we were invited to the school and share things about our countries and our culture and purpose of our visit to Germany among student. We even had a quiz contest regarding Europe, Africa and Asia among student of the school and it was nice experience for us. Beside we also had interaction program with students and allowed them to ask any question they like But they were very few questions and I think it must be because they are not fluent in English language. And for them this program was a part of their English-speaking lesson. I hope today they too had a great time sharing things with us.

We were warmly welcome by the school management head and later we introduced ourselves briefly to the first group of students. After then we shared about our profession, culture back in our countries and anything they would like to know about us. And questions from student were all sort and for us it was learning experience about their way of viewing us as guest of Germany. Most questions were regarding photography, photojournalism, paparazzi and our profession. It was good opportunity for them to see world from our perspectives. With second group we did a quiz contest and those who made a good points got prize handed over by Ms. Angelika. Later we went to visit other houses inside the school and those students toured us inside school of other departments and showed us their well-built Gymnasium hall where bunch students were having their volleyball practice session. We also visited a special class where both boys and girls student learn to cook food. I know many Asian countries never consider cooking as part of their academic course. At end of the program student gave us each a Yellow Rose as gesture of Friendship and cordial ties.

2007-06-14T00:55:00.000+05:45

Exploring Berlin on Bus no: 100

2007-06-10T17:45:00.000+05:45

Central Berlin is quite expansive and difficult to scout out on foot. It is worth covering certain itineraries with public transport and view from this bus number 100 is quite an experience. A trip on bus number 100 and 200 is tantamount to a city tour, taking passengers past the many sights between Zoologischer Garten and Alexanderplatz. I enjoyed this sight seeing bus trip and hope you too will enjoy looking at some pictues I took from bus's upper deck.

Berlin and Cycling

2007-06-10T12:56:00.001+05:45

My first aerial view of Berlin was of windmills mushrooming from the ground and my second view from Mr. Niklash blue van was of cycles. I became so happy to see many cycles rolling around, as I use cycle back home. And instantly I thought I can also use cycle sometime but, Ne.. (That’s how German say, “NO”) one month is not enough time for me to learn traffic rules and instruction regarding cycle and even when I asked this to Ms. Angelika, she abruptly willed not to provide me any cycle considering I may get into road accident. I became little sad but I did ride cycle for once here when Paul came for Bowling on his cycle. And I took his cycle for a ride within non-traffic area near the bowling center. It was fun. Here in Berlin, cycling is becoming favorite mode of transport. People of all ages do ride cycle ever now and then. More and more Berliners are leaving their cars at home and getting on their bike as awareness of environmental and health issues increases. Very encouraging and I think we people of Kathmandu should also adapt this environmentally friendly mean of transportation. Despite of being a metropolis with approximately 3.4 million residents, Berlin is the ideal place for exploring tour by bike. Since Berlin is without any steep hills or narrow curves, one can move easily through Berlin as a bicycler. And according to estimates provided by the ADFC Berlin (in German), three million people in the capital own a bicycle. About half of all journeys made in Berlin cover under five kilometres and for routes of this distance nothing beats the bicycle. No getting stuck in traffic jams, no time wasted searching for somewhere to park, and the daily exercise, of course, is good for us. So, why not Kathmandu take some lesson from Berlin? And needless to tell that cycling is always good for health. It is an ideal sport to improve your figure and your health. German simply love cycling and that's why the Berlin Senate plans to double the number of bicycles on the roads by expanding off-road bicycle paths and facilities, creating city bicycle routes on traffic arteries, constructing long-distance bicycle routes, introducing other suitable traffic-related measures, like cycle lane, road signals especially for cycles. Nearly all big streets are featured with a bicycle lane. And you know even businesspeople and members of parliament use cycle to go to their offices. Many people here enjoy cycling through the countryside with family, friends and neighbors. I have seen many families cycling together going places. It is always amusing sight for me to take pictures.

I know in any part of the world, cycling is always the intelligent choice because of cost, travel time in moving around city. Since I am not allowed to cycle here in Berlin, I miss my cycle a lot.Some cycle action in road.

Jitu In Action

2007-06-08T01:31:00.001+05:45

No doubt all of you would like to see the person behind the camera who's been capturing all these beautiful pictues in Jiten's world ;) hehe.. And here is Jitu'cha updating all these blogs from Berlin useing this very computer.

Sunny day n' Berliner.

2007-06-07T23:14:00.001+05:45

Today we went to two different places. One was Photography Museum called Helmut Newton Foundation Museum: Helmut Newton himself established it at the end of 2003. It is an international foundation dedicated to the promotion, preservation and presentation of the photographic works of Helmut and June Newton (his wife), who under the name of Alice Springs has also produced a significant body of portraiture photography since 1970. And next visit was to C/O Berlin: The Cultural Forum for Photography. After visiting HelMut Newton Foundation Museum we went to Monbijoupark for lunch with Mr. Holger Wenk (freelance journalist). I had a huge oriental lunch with a big glass of Berliner Beer. Lunch consisted wide variety of oriental menus and it was so tasty. I ate a lot. Helmut Newton Foundation: Museum for photography.

After this delicious lunch, I took some pictures of Berliner enjoying sunbath in the park. It was like people were picnicking in the sun and looks very relaxed. Many tourists too enjoying their drinks out in cafés surrounding the park. Berlin has a continental climate typical of North-Eastern Europe. The weather in summer (June - August) is relatively stable and warm. It’s June and relatively it’s much like weather in Kathmandu but people love sun a lot. And today it’s 25-30 degrees Celsius and perfect time for Berliner for sun bathing. But for me a good day to shoot pictures. Mr. Hong (Participant from North Korea) and I went for lot places to take pictures in the evening. Inside C/O Berlin Gallery

Monique, Nikolas and Christin

2007-06-06T20:36:00.001+05:45

Strolling around Berlin with Monique, Nikolas and Christin, was fun. We visited some interesting places and had a nice evening out. Here are some pictures I would like to share. This is Brandenburg Gate, a former city gate and the very symbol of Berlin. It is located between the Pariser Platz and the Platz des 18. März and is the only remaining gate of a series through which one formerly entered Berlin. It was built in 1788 to 1791 by Friedrich Wilhelm II as a sign of peace and built by Carl Gotthard Langhans. In the pictures: Two artists Russian Army and American army trying to imitate old time officers, granting visas like they do in former time to cross the gate to other state of Scandinavian. Richard in red, mysely, Nikolas, Christin and Monique.) Neptune Fountain at Alexanderplatz. Nikolas, Christin and Monique posing for picture. Monique and her twin sis Nikolas at Neptune Fountain. She was playing with statue of Neptune Fountain and when I approached to take pictures, she gave me this sweet smile. Her mother was standing behind smiling at us .

Spree Forest and it's Beauty

2007-06-05T22:46:00.000+05:45

Today was indeed a wonderful day because I’ve received a call from back home in early morning and went excursion to the Spree forest, which is full of nature. Nine am in the morning when we all went to Spree forest with Dr. Claus, Ms. Angelika and Mr. Niklash. It took approximately one hand half hour ride from IIJB to reach Spree Forest and boat for us was already booked. Actually Spree is the name of a famous river here in northeastern Germany, which flows down from the Lusatian Mountains just above Neugersdorf and wade through north past Bautzen and Spremberg, where it splits temporarily into two arms. After it passes Cottbus, the river divides into a network of channels, forming a marshy wooded region that is known as the Spree Forest of Lübbenau and Lübben. After a brief welcome speech by our Boat sailor guide in German we slowly started to wade through Spree river which looks like a painted canvas with lush green. This river is divided into two parts, Upper and Lower Spree Forest. Upper Spree forest is a huge water labyrinth and full of small trees. Sailing was very quite and beautiful. I like the smell and sound of forest, which is full of birds chirping and distinctive cuckoo singing like we do have back home. Both Lübbenau and Lübben are known as a tourist destination here in Germany and is very famous for its sour cucumber pickle. Many local shops were selling these special pickles almost everywhere. The best way to navigate Lübbenau and Lübben is by boat in Spree River, which threads their way through this park-like agricultural area. All boats are sailed by single man without motor engine. Venturing into this Spree is a unique experience of both for its landscape and culture of Lübben. River is about 100km/62mi southeast of Berlin, and it's humid lowland with sandy flats and dunes and crossed by numerous water-courses known as the "Fliessen." The Spree River here in Berlin is 382km long. The Spree also holds other importance to Berlin. It supplies most of Berlin's drinking water and other needs. A large part of the river's water is pumped up out of the coalmine around Cottbus, replacing the ground water which itself has been reduced by constant use over the centuries. Fauna and flora in this biosphere reserve of Spree forest has about 830 species of butterflies, 113 different mussels and snails, 36 species of fish, 45 mammals species of birds like crane, gray heron, sea eagle, big brackish bird, hoopoe, king-fisher, all species of woodpecker, white and black stork and 48 species of dragonflies which definitely is a good sign of ecologically intact water ways. Well we are not able to see different kinds of these birds but we enjoyed a lot listening their sweet chirping.
In 1991 UNESCO recognized this forest as its cultural heritage list and every year it attracts more than 3 million tourists. Okay I guess I really don’t have to equip any word to tell all how we felt from this wonderful excursion. Here are whole lots of pictures telling stories of its beauty. Just enjoy!! It is very interesting how local people love to decorate their homes with all these miniature in their small garden which are full of beautiful flowers.
Little company while we were sailing through the Spree River. These are wild ducks but still they are relaxed with people and they keep following boats like dolphin. With Dr. Rüdiger Claus(Director of IIJB).