Renowned nature photographer K. Jayaram, a pioneer in macro photography in India, passed away at the age of 74 in Coimbatore. His demise is a great loss to the world of photography and nature enthusiasts alike. Jayaram, who dedicated his life to capturing the beauty of nature, leaves behind a legacy of exceptional work and a long list of accolades.
Throughout his career, Jayaram received numerous international and national awards, solidifying his position as one of the most acclaimed nature photographers in India. He possessed a remarkable talent for capturing intricate details in his macrophotography, revealing the mesmerising world of tiny creatures and plants that often go unnoticed by the naked eye.
Despite his immense talent and recognition, Jayaram led a modest and solitary life as a bachelor. He devoted himself entirely to his passion for photography, spending countless hours in the wilderness, patiently waiting for the perfect shot. His commitment and unwavering dedication were evident in the breathtaking images he produced.
In March of this year, Jayaram was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects the body’s immune system. Despite the challenges posed by his illness, he remained determined and continued his treatment while maintaining his passion for photography. His unwavering spirit and love for nature served as a source of inspiration to many.
On Sunday afternoon, Jayaram’s condition took a turn for the worse. He had been admitted to the hospital a week prior due to a lung infection, and his health deteriorated following a stroke. Tragically, he passed away due to multi-organ failure, leaving behind a void in the photography community that will be difficult to fill.
Jayaram’s journey in photography began at the young age of 14 when he received his first camera in 1962. He started by capturing festivals, temples, and landscapes, gradually honing his skills and developing a unique perspective. In 1963, his talent was recognised when he won his first photography competition, earning a plastic-cased Agfa Click-III camera as a prize.
As his interest in nature grew, Jayaram became an avid reader and collector of rare books on nature, science, and photography. His thirst for knowledge and desire to push the boundaries of his craft led him to develop his own techniques for processing negatives during the early stages of his photographic career.
One of Jayaram’s notable achievements came in 1969 when he collaborated with an optician to create a one diopter lens that he attached to his camera. This innovation allowed him to capture incredibly detailed images of small creatures and organisms. His groundbreaking work with the lens earned him recognition on the international stage, including gold and silver medals at the International Salon of Photography in Los Angeles in 1970.
Jayaram’s contributions to the field of photography extended beyond his captivating images. He co-authored books such as “Some South Indian Butterflies” and made significant contributions to a publication on Silent Valley. His photographs and articles have been published in renowned international journals and magazines, including Sanctuary and National Geographic, showcasing his exceptional talent to a global audience.
In recognition of his outstanding achievements, Jayaram received various accolades and honours. He became an Associate of the Royal Photographic Society, UK (ARPS) in 1978, solidifying his reputation as a distinguished photographer. The International Federation of Photographic Art, Europe (EFIAP), awarded him the distinction of Excellence in 1983, followed by the prestigious Master Honour EFIAP in 1986.
Jayaram’s immense contribution to the world of photography is further highlighted by the fact that he had two species named after him. The frog species Raorchestes jayarami and the spider species Myrmarachne jayaramani were both named in his honour.
A documentary titled “Insects to Infinity” immortalises Jayaram’s life and work, providing a glimpse into the extraordinary journey of this remarkable photographer. The documentary showcases his artistic vision, technical expertise, and profound love for nature, inspiring future generations of photographers to explore and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.
As news of Jayaram’s passing spread, tributes poured in from across the photography community. Fellow photographers, enthusiasts, and admirers expressed their condolences and shared their admiration for his talent, dedication, and humble nature. His work will continue to be cherished, reminding us of the beauty and diversity that exists in the natural world.
Jayaram’s funeral and last rites will be held in his hometown of Coimbatore, where family, friends, and colleagues will gather to bid farewell to this extraordinary artist. His impact will be felt for years to come, as his images continue to captivate and inspire, reminding us of the importance of preserving and appreciating the natural world.
Feature Image Courtesy: Mathrubhumi
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