Heritage Lens/Iteration 6

Heritage Lens
DCW Photography Campaign

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The Iteration 6 of the Heritage Lens will run from 24 to 20 September 2025, focusing on the Jammu Srinagar National Highway. This iteration was conducted differently with Mahi zahidi as the primary fellow while Sabaaya and KahkashaaN as secondary fellows. Koshur helped facilitate as a local guide.

Some images!

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  Mausoleum of Mir Saadullah Shahabadi
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  Achabal Gardens and the Mughal architecture
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  Mausoleum of Jamaluddin Bukhari in Lisser
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  Markazi Jama Masjid, Aishmuqam
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  Mahmud Gami mausoleum

Learning report

This section includes questions that are answered by the fellow for learning and evaluation purposes. These reports are used by DCW for improving the subsequent iterations of the initiative.

• What do you think about the Heritage Lens initiative?

The Heritage Lens initiative is a very thoughtful and meaningful program. It directly impacts the community by helping us understand local culture and heritage more deeply. Through this initiative,I was also able to contribute valuable Visuals to Wikipedia, which makes the experience both educational and impactful.Sabaaya (talk) 18:54, 11 October 2025 (UTC)

The Heritage Lens initiative means a lot to me personally. As a heritage photographer, I often find it challenging to get opportunities in this field because most of the photography industry is centered around commercial work like weddings, fashion, or product shoots. Heritage photography doesn’t always get the attention it deserves, even though it carries so much cultural and historical value. So, this initiative was a very special opportunity for me to showcase my passion and potential. It gave me a platform to tell stories through visuals and connect deeply with our roots, which is something I truly cherish. Mahi zahidi (talk) 16:25, 17 October 2025 (UTC)

• What new things did you learn during the execution of the project? What do you think about their impact?

During this project I learned many new things about the rich culture and heritage of Kashmir, especially in the Anantnag district. I had the opportunity to interact closely with local people, observe their daily lives, and understand their values, traditions,way of living and even got to experience the local cuisine, which beautifully reflects the warmth, tradition, and essence of Kashmiri culture. This helped me connect more deeply with the community and gain a better appreciation of their cultural identity. I also improved my photography skills, as this project gave me the chance to explore my interest in capturing heritage sites and expressing stories through visuals. Through this experience, I learned how to represent heritage more meaningfully. Beyond the technical and cultural learning, The experience with people made me more kind, empathetic, and respectful toward both nature and humanity. It also taught me to be more grateful for simple things in life and to see beauty in every moment.The impact of this project is quite significant. It not only enhanced my personal learning and creativity but also helped me contribute more effectively to Wikipedia by sharing authentic Visuals about local culture and heritage. It truly encouraged me to value and preserve cultural diversity.Sabaaya (talk) 18:54, 11 October 2025 (UTC)

Through this project, I learned how important it is to document our heritage with honesty and respect. I got to explore the beauty of local traditions, architecture, and culture, and it opened my eyes to how much richness surrounds us that often goes unnoticed. This experience not only improved my photography skills but also shaped my creative vision. I learned how to capture emotions, stories, and memories that go beyond just pictures. The impact was huge—it gave me more confidence, helped me grow as a storyteller, and made me even more determined to preserve our cultural identity through my work. Mahi zahidi (talk) 16:26, 17 October 2025 (UTC)

• Did you face any challenges during the project? If yes, please tell about your experience and any possible ideas that you think could be helpful in mitigating those issues.

The experience was very smooth, and I didn’t face any major difficulties during the project. Everything went well, and it was overall, a great and enriching experience full of learning for which I am grateful.Sabaaya (talk) 18:54, 11 October 2025 (UTC)

Honestly, the overall experience was wonderful and smooth, but as someone still trying to build a space in heritage photography, there were small challenges—like balancing documentation with research and reaching the right places on time. Sometimes, I wished for a little more structure or coordination between contributors. I think having a well-planned schedule and better communication before the fieldwork could make things easier for future participants. Mahi zahidi (talk) 16:26, 17 October 2025 (UTC)

• Do you have any additional remarks for the future iterations of the Heritage Lens? What should be improved?

I would suggest having a more structured schedule with clear planning about which places will be visited and which areas will be covered. This kind of flexibility and organization could make the process even more efficient and enjoyable.Sabaaya (talk) 18:54, 11 October 2025 (UTC)

I would love to see this initiative grow and continue because it’s such a rare and valuable platform for photographers like me who are passionate about culture and heritage. In the future, maybe there could be more follow-up projects or exhibitions where participants can display their work and connect with others in this field. That would really help promote heritage photography and create more opportunities for people who want to keep this art form alive. I’m truly grateful for this experience and would be honored to join every future Heritage Lens project if I get the chance. Mahi zahidi (talk) 16:27, 17 October 2025 (UTC)