Chāyā Chitra Patrikodyama: A Landmark Kannada Work on Photojournalism
Among Astro Mohan’s distinguished publications, one title holds a particularly special place in Karnataka’s media and photography circles – ಚಾಯಾಚಿತ್ರ ಪತ್ರಿಕೋದ್ಯಮ (Chāyā Chitra Patrikodyama). Commissioned by the Karnataka Media Academy, this pioneering Kannada-language book stands as one of the very few authoritative works on photojournalism written specifically for Kannada-speaking readers.
In this landmark work, Mohan draws upon his decades of frontline experience as a senior news photographer to provide both aspiring and seasoned photojournalists with a comprehensive guide to the craft. The book covers a wide range of topics, including:
✔ The history and evolution of photojournalism in India and Karnataka,
✔ The ethical responsibilities of a photojournalist,
✔ Technical mastery of camera equipment and composition,
✔ Challenges of field reporting in breaking news, politics, culture, and sports,
✔ The shifting landscape of visual media in the digital age.
Other Notable Works and Contributions
In addition to his solo-authored books, Astro Mohan has contributed to numerous magazines, exhibition catalogs, and cultural documentation projects. His upcoming projects are expected to include a photographic chronicle of Sri Puthige Swamiji’s international travels and a new pictorial study on Karnataka’s living folk traditions.
Mohan’s books are widely regarded not just for their visual beauty but for their cultural responsibility — they are crafted to preserve stories, inspire younger generations, and remind readers of the deep connections between place, people, and tradition.
Why His Books Matter
At a time when digital media often favors speed over depth, Astro Mohan’s books stand as carefully crafted, tangible works that invite slow reading, reflection, and appreciation. They are objects meant to be held, revisited, and passed down — much like the stories they contain.
By combining photography, historical research, and personal narrative, Mohan’s publications ensure that Karnataka’s visual and spiritual heritage is not just archived but kept alive, celebrated, and continually rediscovered.
Exhibitions
First photo exhibition organized at Canara college Mangalore – 1991
- Late Kota Shivaram Karantha held at Udupi – 1996
- Flora and fauna Udupi – 1997
- Flora and fauna Mangalore – 1997
- Flora and fauna Belgaum – 1998
- Facets of car street Udupi – 1999
- Gujarat earthquake Bangalore – 2000 (Inaugurated by Ex.CM of Karnataka Mr.S.M.Krishna)
- Gujarath earthquake Hubli – 2000
- A day with the saint Udupi – 2001 (Inaugurated by Ex Governor of Karnataka late Mrs. Ramadevi)
- A day with the saint Mumbai – 2002
- A day with the saint Hubli – 2002
- Wild elephant Movement Udupi – 2003
- Lalit Kala Akademi Bangalore – 2003
- Lalit Kala Akademi Lucknow – 2004
- Lalit Kala Akademi Lucknow – 2005
- Lait Kala AkademiNew delhi – 2006
- Wood carvings in Ashta mathas Udupi – 2008
- Light and shadow Kolkotta 2008
- Picture Tribute to T.S. Satyan Udupi – 2009
- Artists Forum Paryaya Udupi – 2010
- Karnataka Photographers Assn Bangalore – 2010
- Allhabad Ganga Kalyan All India Salon – 2010
- Photography Society of Madras Chennai – 2010
- Youth Photographic society Bangalore – 2011
- Karnataka Photographers Assn. Bangalore – 2011
- Artists Forum Udupi – 2012 (Jan)
- Srijan, Kolkatta Kolkatta 2012 (March)
- Jodhana Photojournalist Assn Jodhpur – 2012 (May)
- India International Photographic Council-Vijayawada – 2012(Aug)
- RPC 1st National salon – 2012 (Dec)
- Photo forum of Midnapur – 2012 (Dec)
- India International Photographic Council-Vijayawada – 2013(Aug)
- 4th Agence International Photo salon Hungary – 2013 (Aug)
- Indian Visual Arts Foundation International Salon of Fine Arts Photography – 2013
- Life style of Dr. M.V. Kamath Manipal School of communication Manipal – 2013
- FOCI (Friends of colorful India Pune) – 2013
- World Tulu convention Kuwait (1st International solo photography exhibition)