Some people choose an easy path in life, but others look for adventure and challenge. Raj Adhikari from Nawalparasi West, Nepal, is one of those people who dared to follow his dreams. His inspiring journey from studying agriculture to becoming a successful photojournalist shows how passion and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements.
Raj started his higher education in Agricultural Science at the Agriculture and Forestry University. While studying, he discovered his love for photography. This put him at a crossroads: should he pursue a career in agriculture or follow his passion for photography? Instead of choosing one, Raj decided to combine his knowledge of agriculture with his creative talent for photography. This decision not only shaped his career but also made him an example for young people who are unsure whether they can follow their dreams.
Raj’s interest in photography began at a young age, but he got serious about it after finishing college. He says, “I was passionate about photography from a very small age, but I delved into this field even more after I finished college. That’s when I got my first camera.”
Over the past five years, Raj has used his camera to tell powerful stories through images. His photography focuses on the beauty of rural Nepal, its culture, and nature. But his work is not just about capturing beautiful moments. Raj also uses his photography to bring attention to social issues like child marriage, inequality, discrimination, and the struggles of farmers.
Raj’s academic background has played an important role in shaping his photography. While pursuing his Master of Science in Agriculture with a major in Rural Sociology, he learned about the challenges faced by people in rural Nepal. He explains, “My academics have injected a taste of rural Nepal into my photography artworks. I have played my part in promoting the nature and conserving the culture of such magnificent parts of Nepal.”
Raj is now a freelance photojournalist. His photographs have been featured in popular platforms like BBC News Nepali, Kantipur, The Kathmandu Post, FAO Nepal, and WWF Nepal. Recently, he gained attention on social media for photographing the Olive Keelback snake, a species captured for the first time in Nepal.
Apart from photography, Raj is also a conservationist. He is a life member of Bird Conservation Nepal and a member of the National Forum of Photojournalists Nepal. His talent has been recognized in national and international photography competitions, such as the Visit Nepal 2020 Photo Contest and the FAO International Year of Millets 2023 Photo Contest. His work has even been exhibited in countries like Brazil and Italy, where audiences appreciated his effort to highlight Nepal’s culture and nature.
For Raj, photography is more than a job—it’s something that makes him happy and keeps him motivated. He says, “I find myself on the best terms when I am holding my camera. Photography, in fact, works as a therapy for me and is one of the most important parts of my life.”
To inspire and help others, Raj organizes photography workshops for beginners. He encourages young people to follow their passion, no matter what their academic or professional background may be. His message is simple: “Never give up on your dreams. With passion and hard work, you can achieve great things.”
Raj Adhikari’s journey shows that it is possible to combine different interests and create something unique. By blending his knowledge of agriculture with his love for photography, he has created a career that not only fulfills him but also makes a positive impact on society. His story reminds us that when we follow our hearts, we can make a difference in the world.
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