A Captivating Conversation with Astrophotographer and Canon Mentor Mr. Virendra Adhikari on GEHU Talkies

-by Komal Rana

On August 1st, I had the privilege of hosting a special episode of GEHU Talkies—the official podcast channel of Graphic Era Hill University—with a truly inspiring guest: Mr. Virendra Adhikari, a renowned astrophotographer and Canon mentor.

Mr. Adhikari is no stranger to our campus, having conducted several engaging photography workshops here, including one earlier that day. Known for his stunning low-light and Milky Way photography, he brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the art form.

During our conversation, we explored his fascinating journey—from his humble beginnings in Uttarkashi to becoming a professional photographer recognized by Canon. He shared how he first started capturing photos using just a smartphone, and how his love for the craft eventually led him to invest in a camera and turn his passion into a full-fledged career.

One of the most valuable parts of the discussion was learning about the importance of editing in photography. According to Mr. Adhikari, editing is not just a post-process step but a vital part of storytelling through images. He also offered crucial advice for beginners, highlighting common mistakes that should be avoided, such as neglecting the basics of lighting, framing, and camera settings.

An insightful moment that truly stayed with me was his perspective on education. He emphasized that while photography can be an innate talent, formal education plays a crucial role in shaping a person’s discipline, vision, and overall growth. His belief that “education is important for everyone” resonated deeply.

What sets Mr. Adhikari apart is his dedication. He once spent over eight hours capturing the perfect shot of the Milky Way—a testament to the patience and passion required in astrophotography. His work speaks of creativity, precision, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence.

It was an honor to host him and learn so much from his experiences. For aspiring photographers, his story serves as a powerful reminder: passion combined with perseverance and education can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

You can catch the full episode on GEHU Talkies, where art meets inspiration photographers, his story serves as a powerful reminder: passion combined with perseverance and education can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

You can catch the full episode on GEHU Talkies, where art meets inspiration!