Sarvesh

A Lens of Courage, Compassion, and Conviction

For over 35 years, Sarvesh has been a path-breaking figure in Indian photojournalism — a storyteller who has dared to see and show the truth, and a woman who has braved both personal and professional storms with unwavering determination.

A Journey Shaped by Struggle and Strength

Sarvesh’s life and career are marked by resilience. Surviving an abusive marriage for nearly a decade, she chose to use only her first name as a mark of her reclaimed identity. It was a gifted camera from a friend that became her gateway to a world where she could express, resist, and document the truth — and she has never looked back.

Today, Sarvesh is celebrated as one of the few women photojournalists in India who has consistently pushed boundaries, often venturing into terrains where few dared to go, especially as a woman in a male-dominated profession.

Making History Through Her Lens

Her work speaks of her courage. Among her most prominent assignments are:

• The 1991 Uttarkashi Earthquake, where she captured hauntingly raw and emotional scenes of devastation and survival.
• The Kargil War, during which close to 100 of her photographs were published in leading newspapers. One of these powerful images earned her a prestigious award, a testament to her skill and fearlessness in war reporting.

Sarvesh reflects,

“I have done more work as a freelancer than when I was in a newsroom.”

Challenges Within the Newsroom

Her six-year tenure as a Senior PhotographeratHindustan Times exposed the deep-seated gender biases in the media industry. Despite her talent and experience, she faced denial of opportunities, marginal pay increments, and no promotion.

“The Kedarnath calamity happened when I was there, but I wasn’t allowed to go despite the fact that I am a mountaineer,” she recalls, pointing out how even her mountaineering experience wasn’t enough to overcome prejudice.
“People aren’t very comfortable with bold women. There is a tendency to demoralize them.”

Perfect Frame: Capturing Women’s Perspectives

In her groundbreaking coffee table book, “Perfect Frame” (published by Bharatiya Jnanpith), Sarvesh documents not only her own journey but also shines a spotlight on India’s women photographers — giving voice to the often unseen and unheard.

• “Perfect Frame” ismore than a photo collection — it is a testament to the power of women’s vision in photography.
• The book has been hailed as a seminal work that brings out the nuanced realities and contributions of women photographers in India.

Exhibitions and Public Recognition

Sarvesh has held multiple acclaimed solo exhibitions, focusing on themes such as:

• Women’s dignity and resilience
• Marginalized communities
• Post-disaster and conflict zones
  These exhibitions have been showcased in India and abroad, touching audiences and sparking important conversations about humanity, justice, and gender.

Media Features and TV Appearances

Sarvesh’s incredible journey and fearless work have been profiled in numerous television programs and national dailies, including:

• “Women of Courage” (NDTV Special Feature) — focusing on women who broke barriers in male-dominated professions.
• “India’s Unsung Photojournalists” (Doordarshan Documentary) — highlighting the lives of photojournalists who bring untold stories to the world.
• CNN-IBN “Trailblazers” — a profile on women pioneers in Indian media.
• Appearances in Times Now and Mirror Now segments discussing women’s rights, media ethics, and conflict photography.
• Featured in numerous print articles and interviews in leading publications such as The Hindu, The Indian Express, and Outlook India.

Awards and Accolades

Sarvesh has been honoured with numerous national and international awards, including:

• National Award for Excellence in Photojournalism (Government of India)
• International Women Photojournalist Award for her work on gender-based violence and women’s empowerment
• Lifetime Achievement Award from the Indian Photojournalism Association (IPA) for her contributions to the field and her mentorship of young photographers

Mentor, Advocate, and Role Model

Committed to uplifting other women photographers, Sarvesh leads workshops, mentorship programs, and lectures, particularly encouraging young women to break into photojournalism. Her advocacy for women’s rights and equality in media makes her not just a photographer but also a social leader and inspiration for generations to come.

The Unstoppable Spirit of Sarvesh

Sarvesh’s life is a portrait of resilience, truth, and unflinching courage.
Through her lens, she has captured the rawness of war, the silence of tragedy, and the unyielding spirit of women. Her story is proof that even in the face of personal and professional adversities, one woman’s vision can illuminate countless untold stories — and that photography, in the right hands, becomes a powerful tool for justice and humanity.