While mainstream media often chases the sensational and the spotlight, Ishan Tankha’s lens seeks out the silenced revealing the lives and stories that slip through the cracks.
The Wits Centre for Journalism hosted independent documentary photographer, Ishan Tankha, on March 4, in a seminar about photojournalism’s preoccupation with the spectacular. Tankha is known for his compelling portrayal of the marginalised and forgotten.
His work, which spans continents, from his homeland in India to the United States, reflects his dedication to telling the stories of those often overlooked by mainstream media.
Tankha’s photographic journey is deeply rooted in his commitment to uncovering the narratives of people caught in the “in-between” — those who are typically absent from the headlines, such as minorities, displaced communities, and individuals enduring the effects of conflict. His focus is on capturing raw, untold stories that challenge perceptions and humanize complex social and political issues.
During his presentation, Tankha spoke candidly about his approach to documentary photography, emphasising that his work cannot be summed up in a single sentence.
Rather than taking a surface-level view of global conflicts, his work delves into the lives of individuals caught in the throes of war, violence, famine, and unrest. What sets him apart is his patience and dedication to his subjects.
He shared that, at times, he spends years observing and building trust with the people he captures, allowing their stories to unfold in a way that goes beyond what is immediately visible. This long-term commitment is essential to truly understanding the nuances of their lives, creating images that resonate deeply with audiences and spark conversation.
Tankha’s exploration of conflict through photography is not just about documenting the chaos but about interrogating the broader implications of these events on human lives. He aims to reveal the extraordinary situations of ordinary people living in extreme conditions. His focus is not just on the grand, often violent narratives of war or famine but on the silent struggles of individuals who are left behind by history, their stories ignored or forgotten by the world.
Having exhibited his work both in the United States and India, Tankha’s photography transcends borders. His powerful images are a call to attention — a reminder that there is always more to a story than what is immediately apparent.
Through his lens, he challenges the dominant narratives of conflict, shedding light on the quiet, complex, and often painful realities faced by individuals who live in the shadows of history. His work is a vital contribution to the world of photojournalism, ensuring that the stories of the most vulnerable are not only told but understood.
FEATURED IMAGE: Motorcyclists in India as seen through the lens of Ishan Tankha. Photo by: Ishan Tankha
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