Pics: Nithin Pereira
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Feb 1: The mini coffee table book “Udupi Manipal Andu-Endu” by renowned senior news photographer Astro Mohan was officially released on Saturday, February 1 at the Yakshagana Kalaranga IYC Auditorium in Udupi. The event was organised by the Udupi District Kannada Sahitya Parishad Udupi Taluk unit in association with Bhutharaja Publication. This marks Astro Mohan’s sixth book, which showcases the transformation of Udupi and Manipal over time.
H S Ballal, pro-chancellor of MAHE Manipal, released the book and remarked, “Dr Madhav Pai played a pivotal role in Udupi's development. Whenever Astro Mohan attends an event, he always captures the best moments. Udupi and Manipal have undergone significant changes, more than any other district in the state. This book is a must-read, and we should encourage others to read it as well. Images have a greater impact than words, and Astro Mohan’s photographs are of exceptional quality. We will certainly place this book in our university and share it with our international students.”
Dr Nikeshana shared, "This book takes you back in time, showcasing the transformation of Udupi, from black-and-white to colour photographs. Astro Mohan is not just a photographer, but also a writer, poet, and critic. His sharp observations of Udupi’s subtle changes make him a source of great pride for the region. Through his camera, he has captured these pivotal moments, and this book will undoubtedly inspire aspiring photographers."
Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna said, “In the next 20 years, Udupi will become one of the most developed regions, second only to Bengaluru. Astro Mohan has beautifully captured how Udupi looked 30 years ago, offering the younger generation a glimpse into the past. Such remarkable work is only possible when someone is committed to documenting these moments.”
Kishor Alva, executive director of Adani Group, said, “Sathish Pai has been a mentor to many journalists and photographers. Astro Mohan is a visionary photographer who has beautifully documented Udupi’s essence, both past and present, through his compelling storytelling format. Since the division of Udupi and Dakshina Kannada, the district has seen significant progress. With Udupi's growing international student population, the region urgently needs an international airport. With so much transformation on the horizon, there will be many more moments for Astro Mohan to capture. I will propose creating dedicated spaces in airports to showcase such books.”
The event began with an invocation by Padigaru Lakshminarayana Upadyaya. Astro Mohan welcomed the gathering and gave an introductory note. Janardhan Kodavoor delivered the vote of thanks, while Poornima Janardhana compered the event.
Other notable attendees included director of Manipal Media Network Sathish U Pai, president of Karnataka Sahithya Parishad Udupi taluk unit Raviraj H P, senior photographer Yajna Mangaluru, proprietor of Bhutharaja Publication, Udupi Praveena Mohan, and others.