Staunchly living by the adage that a picture speaks a thousand words, 16-year-old Aanya Suri is a youngster with an eye for detail and an urge to make a difference. Her maiden venture Clique India, is an initiative that brings young photography enthusiasts under one roof — with an intent to help NGOs and charitable organisations in Bengaluru, by volunteering to capture their tales through the lens. Even the Ugly Indian have rendered support for this initiative.
“I’ve always wanted to channel ise my passion for photography to raise awareness about important causes, with the focus on the underprivileged. Moreover, I observed that the photographs NGOs use are of low quality smart phone, due to budget constraints — which don’t necessarily bring out the essence of their story.
So I wondered, why not help them create better impact by supporting them with imagery that can draw the right kind of attention?” remarks the young photographer who’s already amassed the support of 30 young volunteers since the venture’s inception in March this year.
Interestingly, a lot of established groups have extended help to this promising youngster. “We have already connected with groups like The Robin Hood Army and The Ugly Indian as well as multiple student-run organisations. The overwhelming responses from potential volunteers, NGOs and people helping me raise awareness, a diverse group of photographers have been formed, and the focus is to give these NGOs the coverage and the footage they require to garner more support. On a personal level, it is really important to me, and shows how people are willing to bring about a change.”
Citing parental support as an integral factor behind the success of the idea, the student from Mallya Aditi International School says, “I'm going to 12th grade now, and apart from exams and tuition, making Clique a success is my focus. Many people say that photography is something you can’t pursue full-time and it’s not a “proper” major, but my only reply to that would be to see the difference that this small group has already made. I also believe support is integral to go about with anything, and I’m glad that my parents are very encouraging and as kicked as I am about this!” Quiz her about her other interests and pat comes the reply, “Apart from photography, I love travelling and am quite a bookworm, I also enjoy deep sea diving.”
Speaking about her upcoming plans, the youngster reveals how the concept still has a long way to go. “In mid-May we will start conducting our own events to influence the importance of art in children today and we will be having some summer workshops to encourage students to engage in creative and performing arts. More than funding, there’s a need for proactiveness and participation, and I aim to bring about a difference through the same.”
