PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Uttarkashi
Renowned photographer Gulab Singh Negi is unveiling the hidden world of the Himalayas through a new collection of photographs. His work captures rare sights that are normally inaccessible to the public, from snow-scattered peaks and secret valleys to mysterious caves. Thanks to his camera, viewers can now experience these remote natural wonders without undertaking mountain treks.
His ‘Himalaya Darshan’ slide show, held in Uttarkashi during the Char Dham Yatra, is providing a unique experience for pilgrims, offering a chance to experience the natural beauty, cultural heritage and the thrilling world of the remote Himalayas along with pilgrimage.
Negi’s connection with the Himalayas is not limited to photographs, but is an important part of his life. Born on January 22, 1957, in Lata village, about 35 kilometers from Uttarkashi town, he first visited Gomukh-Tapovan in 1972. This trip ignited his passion for capturing the natural beauty of the Himalayas.
Subsequently, during arduous journeys through the mountainous regions, he began capturing rare natural scenes, high peaks, glaciers, valleys, religious sites and local life. Years of hard work and constant travel have resulted in his collection of over ten thousand photographs. These photographs capture not only natural scenery but also the diversity of Himalayan culture, traditions, wildlife, and mountain life.
Negi initiated the Himalaya Darshan slide show in Uttarkashi during the Char Dham Yatra in 1984. This initiative has continued uninterrupted ever since.
During this one-hour programme, pilgrims are shown photographs important religious and natural sites along the Char Dham Yatra route, as well as locations like Panchavati, Panch Kedar, Kalindi Pass, Valley of Flowers, Hemkund Sahib, Om Parvat, Adi Kailash and Parvati Sarovar.
“At 69, my passion for the Himalayas remains as strong as ever,” he enthused. He explained that his Himalaya Darshan campaign is not just about scenic views, but serves as a medium to introduce travellers to the hidden wonders of the region.
