In the quaint village of Pernem in Goa, visionary artist found his calling amid the lush landscapes and the vibrant tapestry of Goan culture. Chetan Morajkar, known in the realms of photography and filmmaking as Nishi – in honour of his grandfather Nishikant, is a storyteller at heart, whose journey from a captivated child listening to folk tales to becoming a celebrated visual artist is nothing short of inspiring. His path, marked by intuition, passion, and an unwavering dedication to storytelling, leads us through the evolution of a boy enamoured by the power of visual narratives to a man on a mission to capture the essence of life through his lens.
The Spark of Inspiration
Chetan’s artistic journey began with an unexpected encounter with a Canon 550D camera during his teenage years, a pivotal moment that ignited his passion for photography. This experience, combined with his studies in commercial arts and a major in photography and filmmaking at The One School Goa, laid the foundation for his artistic exploration. Under the guidance of pioneering photographers and educators, Chetan honed his skills, focusing on documentary photography and delving into the dynamic world of DJs and the music scene in Goa. This exploration opened doors to freelancing opportunities and collaborations, marking the beginning of his professional journey.
The creation of @directedbynishi on social media marks a significant chapter in Chetan’s life, symbolising his transformation and a renewed vision towards his craft. The name ‘Nishi,’ representing the dawn of new beginnings and a connection to his roots, became the emblem of his artistic and personal evolution. Through this platform, Chetan shares his journey of capturing life’s moments, stories, and the myriad expressions of Goan culture and its people. His intuitive approach to selecting subjects—whether it’s the rich traditions of Goa, the music festivals, or the everyday stories of its inhabitants—reflects his quest to explore human experiences and the environment we inhabit.
Immersed in Goan Culture
Goa’s culture, landscape, and lifestyle are the soul of Chetan’s work. From the dramatic intensity of traditional performances to the serene beauty of its landscapes, every frame he captures is infused with the essence of Goa. This deep connection not only influences his photographic and filmmaking style but also drives him to create work that honours and preserves Goan traditions for future generations. His storytelling is a bridge between art and social consciousness, aiming to inspire and evoke change through the power of visual narratives.
The Artistic Process
Chetan’s creative process is a meticulous journey from inspiration to execution. It begins with an idea, evolves through extensive research and planning, and culminates in the dynamic act of capturing and weaving stories through his lens. This process, balanced between planned strategies and spontaneous inspiration, showcases Chetan’s ability to adapt and innovate, creating emotionally engaging and visually spectacular narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide.
Memorable Milestones
Among Chetan’s most memorable projects is his experience photographing at Tomorrowland, marking him as the first Goan photographer to capture the essence of one of the globe’s most iconic music festivals. Additionally, his collaboration with GQ magazine stands as a testament to his versatility and passion for visual storytelling. Photographing celebrated actors, musicians, and cultural icons has enriched Chetan’s artistic journey, allowing him to delve into the personalities behind the public figures and capture their essence beyond the screen.
Navigating Challenges
The journey of a photographer and filmmaker is fraught with challenges, from managing eleventh-hour client requests to adapting to the everchanging digital landscape. Chetan views these challenges as opportunities for creative growth, navigating the delicate balance between client expectations and the integrity of storytelling. His approach to building a dedicated team and fostering collective imagination underscores the importance of collaboration in the creative process.
Advice for Aspiring Artists
For those looking to make their mark in the industry, Chetan emphasises the importance of passion, learning, and humility. He advocates for a deep understanding of the craft, encouraging aspiring photographers and filmmakers to explore their unique perspectives and break the conventional rules with purpose. Engaging with the audience on a meaningful level, beyond the metrics of social media, is crucial for creating a lasting impact.
Envisioning the Future
Looking ahead, Chetan’s vision for his work is fuelled by a desire to explore new narratives and techniques, with a focus on contributing positively to the community. His upcoming documentary series on Goan culture and collaborations with various artists reflect his commitment to storytelling that connects, inspires, and transforms. As technology continues to evolve, Chetan remains open to integrating new tools like AI generative art into his creative process, embracing the endless possibilities of photography and filmmaking.
Chetan Morajkar’s journey from the serene village of Pernem to the global stage of visual storytelling is a testament to the transformative power of art. As Nishi, he continues to capture the soul of Goa, weaving narratives that transcend borders and invite us to see the world through a new lens. His work is not just a celebration of Goan culture but a call to preserve its beauty and stories for generations to come, making him a true ambassador of Goan heritage and a visionary artist in the world of photography and filmmaking.
