27th October 2017, Mumbai: A Wildlife Photo Exhibition held by a 15 year old environment enthusiast Aryaman Darda and his mother Rachana Darda was inaugurated by Mrs. Sangita Sajjan Jindal, Philanthropist and Mr. Atul Kasbekar, a renowned photographer at the The Annexe Art Gallery, Mumbai today.
Speaking on the occasion, Jaykumar Rawal, Tourism Minister, Maharashtra, said- "it’s a pleasure being here, Rachana’s eye for Rural India is fantastic. But I have specifically come here to encourage Aryaman. He is a young, budding photographer and it is commendable that he looks at wildlife in such a beautiful way. Maharashtra has abundant wildlife with ample nature beauty, an initiative of this sort is an encouragement for nature and sustainable development. I am sure, this will be instrumental in spreading awareness and will sensitise citizens towards preservation of our ecology. Aryaman is the fourth generation Indian and it is great to see that the new generation is so sensitive towards the environment and is working towards its preservation"
Aryaman Darda, a 10th grade student showcased his wildlife photography today to portray his concern over nature, marine and wildlife preservation. His strong passion for wildlife photography led him to form “The Little Planet Foundation” - a non-profit organization to contribute towards nature conservation. Following in his mentor's’ footsteps, Mr. Bittu Sahgal, an environmental activist and Mr. Himanshu Sheth, one of the leading photographers of our country, Aryaman decided to put all his efforts in protecting the ecology. Aryaman Darda is currently studying in a boarding school called "Institute Le Rosey" in Switzerland.
Atul Kasbekar, renowned fashion Photographer said, " I am really impressed with Rachna’s work. She notices beauty in things we overlook and someone once said God is in the details and she seems to notice details. I am quite blown away by the passion of this young boy and maturity of some of his shots. We talk of the environment and conversation but the next generation has to take charge because it starts young. Aryaman, given his age and his phenomenal work is an inspiration for everyone"
A fashion designer by profession, Rachana Darda, decided to put her passion for photography with the cause to educate the poor children in rural area. Rachna showcased her work through this exhibition called ‘BROWN’, the earthy, rustic tones from the Indian hinterland.
The proceeds from her photography exhibition will be donated to the Jawaharlal Darda Foundation.
The “The Little Planet Foundation” is this young boy’s initiative aiming to increase awareness on importance of wildlife and nature conservation. The foundation is six months old.
In the photo:
Pic - From L to R - Atul Kasbekar,Hon'ble Tourism Minisiter Jayakumar Rawal, Sangita Jindal , Aryaman Darda, Rachna Darda,Vijay Darda