Tag: Photography

Lifting a Family, One Act of Kindness at a Time!

Dear Friends,

I met Sujan Mandol three years ago — a humble, hardworking man who has endured life’s deepest sorrows. His only son drowned a few years ago, and since then, he has been the sole provider for his family of five. One of his daughters is disabled, and though he suffers from health issues himself, he never lets his struggles defeat him. Every day, he used to rent an auto-rickshaw, paying 800 taka before he could earn a single taka.

By the grace of God, I was able to buy him his own auto-rickshaw worth 1,30,000 taka. Now he can finally earn freely, without rent or debt, and with peace in his heart. This rickshaw is not just a vehicle; it is freedom, dignity, and hope for his entire family.

Many of you might remember his daughter, Taposhi. For the past three years, I have been supporting her education. She achieved a Golden A+ in SSC and passed HSC this year with an ‘A’. Her dream is to become a doctor, to heal and give back. I have also taken full responsibility for her younger sister’s education, who is now in class 9 another brilliant student and shares the same dream.

Please keep Taposhi and her family in your prayers.

May her father’s hard work and her determination light the way to a better life filled with dignity and hope.

Love and Light

_GMB Akash

A Gift of Life: 7 Deep Water Pumps Installed, Bringing Clean Water to Hundreds of Families!

I have been working on this project for many years, and I will continue, because water is life. People may survive without many things, but they cannot survive without water.

Through years of hard work, sweat, and dedication, I am proud to present these deep water pumps as my gift to the people. Each pump costs around 90,000 Taka ($900) to install, but the joy, hope, and health it brings are priceless.

Finding the right locations, buying all the materials, carrying them into the villages, and installing the pumps with the help of skilled technicians is no small task—it is truly challenging work. But every effort is worth it when I see families able to drink, cook, and live with dignity.

Khadija Begum shared with me, “We have severe water problems. It’s hard to explain how bad it is. To prepare for prayers, I have to walk far to fetch water or use dirty pond water, which dries up in summer.”

Many villages in Bangladesh face a serious shortage of clean drinking water. These deep tube wells are not just pumps—they are gifts of hope, health, and life. More than 150 families will now have safe water to drink, cook, and live with dignity.

I wish I could do more, and I will continue to try. My friends, this work is not easy, but every drop of water we bring is a gift that changes lives. Please keep me in your prayers, so I can continue this journey of serving those in need, of bringing light where there is darkness, and life where it is most precious.

With love, hope, and gratitude,

GMB Akash

They Flee to Survive!

I’ve seen mothers with nothing to feed their newborns—no food, no shelter, no comfort.
They walked through mud and water, soaked and shaking, holding their babies close with nothing but fear and silent prayers.

In Greece, I saw families arrive at midnight in rubber boats, crossing a dark, angry sea with nothing but hope.
In Bangladesh, Rohingya refugees crossed through flooded rice fields—barefoot, carrying children, carrying pain.

In Pakistan, I visited camps where time stands still, and every face carries a story the world has forgotten.
Children with no shoes and eyes that have seen too much.
Women who gave birth in the middle of chaos, with no help, no home.

Every year, more than 35 million people are forced to flee their homes because of war, persecution, hunger, and fear.
Not one of them asked for this life.
No one becomes a refugee by choice.
They flee to survive.

Every refugee carries a story of unthinkable loss—and a strength the world must never ignore.
— GMB Akash

They Gave Us Everything. We Gave Them Loneliness.

I witnessed life unfolding slowly inside an elderly home—where the silence was heavy, and every corner whispered stories of love that time left behind.

I saw a mother sitting quietly by the door—not to feel the sun, but because her heart still waits for the child who once said, “I’ll be back soon.”

I saw fathers staring into the distance, their eyes filled with memories no one asks about anymore. Faces that once smiled for us now wear only the weight of waiting.

In those small rooms, I witnessed a lifetime of sacrifices—folded into worn-out clothes and faded photographs.

Love once loud, now buried in silence.

And one day, I saw a mother take her last breath. She left this world with her eyes still searching the doorway. No one from her family came—not even to say goodbye.

She left with love in her heart, and an empty chair beside her bed.

But I also saw something else—moments when a son or daughter finally came to visit. How their eyes lit up, how their hands trembled with joy. Some cried quietly, others sobbed with their whole being. The happiness, the emotions, the tears… they made the walls come alive again, even if just for a moment.

They gave us everything: their strength, their dreams, their sleepless nights.

And now, they ask for almost nothing—just a little time, a familiar voice, a hand to hold.

Not to be forgotten.

Just… to be remembered.

— GMB Akash

The True Meaning of Richness!

My heart honors the people who have almost nothing—yet live with everything that truly matters.

They rise before dawn and work until their bodies ache, just to survive another day. Life is harsh and unforgiving—yet they never complain. They never beg. They never give up.

They live with quiet dignity, and every single penny they earn comes from honest labor.

Yesterday, a worker said something to me that still lingers in my mind. He said:

“Brother, our life is hard. We work from early morning until night. Last night, I couldn’t sleep for even a minute because of the heat. In the morning, I ate rice with just salt and water. But you know what? Every time we eat—even that—we say Alhamdulillah. We are grateful.”

In their simplicity, I see greatness—rich in values, strong in spirit, and full of grace.

_ GMB Akash

I See Humans, Not the Poor!

People often blame me and say hurtful things because I photograph the working class instead of luxurious lifestyles, high-rise buildings, or beautiful beaches.

But I don’t see them as poor.
I see them as human beings full of strength, dignity, and resilience—people with fewer opportunities, not less value. They work endlessly for their families, without complaint, without rest. Even with little, they live with more hope and gratitude than most of us.

Many assume that those who have less are unhappy. But I’ve seen the opposite.
They don’t chase status or bank balances—they live for today and find joy in the smallest things.

From my childhood, I saw children working in factories. I saw workers trapped in endless cycles of low wages and long hours. I saw day laborers who build our cities with their hands, yet live invisible lives.

No one wanted to hear their stories.
No one cared to look.
But if they stop working, our world stops moving.

My mission has always been to create awareness—to tell stories that deserve to be seen.

I don’t capture poverty—I capture strength.
The strength to survive, to dream, and to never give up.

— GMB Akash

For the Ones Who Feel Invisible!

I’m sharing this from the heart—not to glorify myself, but to give strength to those who are walking alone. If you’re wondering whether honesty and hard work still matter—I promise you, they do.

Sometimes, I feel a quiet kind of pride. A peaceful dignity.
Not because I’ve achieved something extraordinary—but because I have lived free.
For the last 25 years, I’ve walked my own path. I never had a boss. Never had a godfather or godmother. No powerful friend to open doors or push my name forward.

Whatever little I have achieved—it came from honesty, hard work, and belief.
I never begged for work. I never flattered anyone to get ahead. I never asked to be promoted or praised. I only had my camera, my stories, and the love of the people I work for and with.

Yes, the journey was hard—lonely at times.
But I’ve never compromised.
And that is my greatest achievement.

I’ve seen people rise fast—some with little passion but big connections.
I’ve seen awards, exhibitions, and fame handed over easily—while many real artists remain unseen.
But I still believe… that truth cuts through the noise.

That if you stay honest and keep doing the work that matters, your voice will find its way.

So to those who are struggling—to those who feel invisible:
Stay true. Be patient. Trust your journey.

Let your work speak before you do.

That’s the kind of success that no one can take away from you.

_ GMB Akash

Not to Sadden, But to Awaken.

The workers are working in an aluminum cooking pot manufacturing factory in Dhaka.

I don’t photograph struggle, suffering, or the lives of the underprivileged to make people sad.
I create to open eyes—to reveal the unseen strength, quiet beauty, and unshakable resilience of those who have so little, yet carry the weight of the world with unmatched courage and grace.

A girl child is working in a factory where they make screws for construction in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Yes, pain is real. But so is hope.
And sometimes, a single image can awaken something deep within us—a sense of empathy, a moment of reflection, or the courage to change.

If my work can touch even one heart, it has fulfilled its purpose.

— GMB Akash

Telling Stories the World Wants to Ignore!

The kind of photography I do isn’t easy to sustain. Year after year, it takes everything from you.

People often say my photos are too sad or too heavy. They show poverty, pain, and struggle—realities many would rather not see. In a world that prefers beauty, luxury, and curated happiness, my images make some uncomfortable. They don’t hang on walls. They don’t sell. But they are real.

Still, I keep going.

Why?

Because someone must. Because these stories matter. Behind every image is a life that deserves to be seen.

As documentary photographers, we walk a lonely road. There is no industry behind us. No brands sponsoring our purpose. We carry our own weight—travel, gear, food, everything—because this work demands it. Not for profit, but for truth.

I want to bring positive change.
To show what must not continue. To highlight what needs our attention. If my work inspires someone to care, to act, to be more human—that’s the true reward. That’s the meaning of all our sacrifices.

This work isn’t easy, but it is necessary.
And as long as I have a camera, I’ll keep telling stories that matter.

_ GMB Akash

I Chose Purpose Over Promotion!

There was a time when I didn’t know better.

I thought saying yes to promotions and endorsements would help me grow, make me more visible. I said yes a few times — to brands, companies, campaigns — without truly understanding what I was becoming a part of.

But slowly, I started to feel uncomfortable.
I saw how my face, my story, my name were being used — not to inspire, but to sell.
And sometimes, what was being sold wasn’t even true.

So I stopped.

I’ve made mistakes. I’ve taken wrong turns. But I’ve learned from each one of them. I’m still learning. I’m not perfect — just trying to stay honest in a world that often rewards the opposite.

Today, I say no to every offer that doesn’t align with my values — even when it comes with more money than I could ever imagine.

Because I didn’t become a photographer to sell things.

I became a photographer to serve people — to tell the stories that often go unseen.

I don’t want to use people to make a living. I want to use my lens to give them dignity and voice.

I live a simple life. I don’t have much.
But I carry what matters most — self-respect, truth, and peace of mind.

This is not a criticism of anyone else’s choices.
Everyone walks their own path.
This is simply mine.

And if sharing this helps even one person stay true to who they are, then it’s worth saying out loud.

We may not have much in our hands.
But if we have honesty in our hearts,
we already have everything.

_GMB Akash

A Torn Dictionary, a Second-Hand Camera, and a Thousand Untold Stories!

From the very beginning of my journey, I was captivated by the images of Salgado, James Nachtwey, Reza Deghati, Alex Webb, David Alan Harvey, Cartier-Bresson — masters who told human stories with truth and soul.

Many of them used Leica. But for me, it was never just about the camera. It was about what they saw — the dignity, the depth, the human connection. Leica became a symbol of that kind of storytelling. Quietly, I dreamed of holding one someday.

But my beginning was far from any dream.

I started with a used Yashica FX-3 — my father’s old family camera. I didn’t even know photography could be a profession. No mentor. No internet. No books. Just an English manual — and I barely understood the language.

When I couldn’t afford a translator, I bought a torn, second-hand dictionary and taught myself both English and photography. Word by word. Frame by frame. With only hunger, heart, and hope.

I had one 50mm lens. Later, I borrowed gear from anyone who trusted me.

I gave tuition to buy film. Skipped meals to save for processing.

I shot weddings and fashion — not because I loved it, but to fund the work I truly cared about: telling the stories of people the world often overlooks.

At night, I turned our bathroom into a darkroom.

I developed rolls under red light until sunrise.

I spent years walking through slums, garment factories, brickfields, train stations, refugee camps, and forgotten alleys.

I entered brothels, disaster zones, hidden corners of cities, and remote villages — the kind of places people were too afraid to go.

I sat with people society ignored. I didn’t just photograph them — I listened.

It wasn’t easy. My fingers ached when I couldn’t shoot. My chest felt heavy.

Photography wasn’t what I wanted to do — it was what I needed to do.

And now, after 25 years, I’ve finally bought a Leica.

It’s not just a camera.

It’s a symbol of everything I’ve lived through — every roll, every story, every step.

This isn’t a story about gear.

It’s a story about purpose.

About belief, compassion, and never giving up.

— GMB Akash

Because the World Can Change!

The word ‘change’ is still a dream I refuse to give up on.

I’ve met children working in dark, dangerous places—their small hands worn like those of old men.

I’ve witnessed sex workers in despair, breaking down in tears—betrayed and abandoned by those they once trusted.

I’ve sat beside lonely souls in elderly homes, waiting endlessly for someone who never returns.

Drug addiction is increasing among the street children who live without a family, love and care. Bangladeshi youth are ‘huffing’ shoe glue, a drug locally called ‘Danti’, which is seriously harmful to mental and physical health. Up to 17 percent of street children in capital Dhaka are addicted to drugs

I’ve seen young boys fading away on the streets—lost to addiction before help could reach them.

I’ve seen tiny feet wandering through garbage dumps, searching for scraps just to survive.

I’ve seen mothers sleeping on sidewalks, wrapping their children in nothing but love beneath the open sky.

I’ve met street children with no home, no name, no hand to hold—yet still sharing their last piece of bread with a stray dog.

This journey has never been easy. It has left me heartbroken, sleepless, frustrated—and at times, hopeless.

But never without faith.

I still believe in miracles.

Because this world can change—if only we choose to care.

— GMB Akash

Dhaka’s Shipyard – Where Steel Meets Survival!

By GMB Akash

Along the Buriganga River in Dhaka, giant ships are repaired and rebuilt—not by machines, but by men with bare hands and unbreakable spirits. The shipyard is a world of fire, metal, and endless noise, where thousands of laborers work without safety gear, earning just enough to survive.

Most come from distant villages, chasing a better life. They sleep beside the ships they mend, risking everything each day. Over 200 ships are repaired here every year—fueling our economy, but costing these men their youth, health, and often, their dreams.

In their silent struggle, I see courage. In their worn faces, I find stories the world needs to know.

In the Shadows of Rising Waters!

Every year, Bangladesh faces devastating floods that claim lives and leave millions homeless. In 2024 alone, over 5.8 million people were affected, 71 lives were lost, and damages soared to $1.2 billion.

Annually, disasters like floods, droughts, and storms inflict nearly $3 billion in losses, affecting over 6.3 million people.

These figures, while staggering, only hint at the personal tragedies—homes submerged, livelihoods destroyed, dreams washed away.

For over two decades, I have been documenting these stories through my lens, aiming to illuminate the resilience and dignity of those who face nature’s wrath with unwavering spirit.

Photographing the human cost of climate change is not just about images; it’s about empathy, understanding, and a call to action.

— GMB Akash

Stilt Fishing in Sri Lanka – A Vanishing Tradition!

In the coastal waters of southern Sri Lanka, fishermen rise with the sun and climb wooden stilts planted deep into the seabed. With no nets or boats, they balance silently, waiting for the right moment to catch a fish with a simple rod.

This age-old method, passed down through generations, speaks of resilience, harmony with nature, and a life shaped by the sea.

But as tourism grows and the ocean changes, fewer families rely on this tradition for survival. What was once a way of life is slowly fading into memory.

Wounds That Speak!

These feet don’t walk for comfort — they walk for survival.
Cracked, wounded, and caked in dust, they carry the silent weight of sacrifice, hunger, and unbreakable will.

Every scar tells a story — not just of pain, but of resilience, love, and the fight to build a better life.

These are not just feet — they are the quiet testimony of those who remain unseen, yet carry the world forward with bare hands and broken soles.
Their pain holds dignity. Their silence carries strength.

— GMB Akash

Through My Lens: A Life of Loss, Love, and Purpose!

I have witnessed loss, betrayal, grief, hunger, and suffering — but also joy, achievement, and love. My photographs are not just images; they are reflections of my own experiences, echoes of the life I have lived.

I have made mistakes. I have failed. I have been lost. But each misstep taught me something invaluable — about life, about resilience, and about myself. These struggles have shaped me, carving a deeper understanding of the world and the people I photograph.

Photography, for me, is not a career but a responsibility — to be a voice for the unheard, to bring attention to lives often overlooked. The unprivileged have no platform, their struggles buried in silence. Through my lens, I seek to make them seen, to stir hearts, to remind us of our shared humanity.

I never pursued photography for fame or gain, but for purpose — to connect, to give, to create change. I do not just take pictures; I seek meaning. My work is a constant search for truth, a reflection of the hope and pain that shape our existence.

In the end, I do not want to just exist — I want to leave something behind that matters.

#PhotographyForChange

#HumanityInFocus

#VoicesUnheard

#DocumentaryPhotography

#LifeThroughALens

#PurposeDrivenArt

#ResilienceAndHope

#StorytellingThroughPhotography

#UnseenLives

#legacyofmeaning

We want fair wages and safe workplaces for every mother!

Female textile worker Sayma (22) is working inside the factory building. Dulal Brothers Ltd. Kashimpur.Gazipur.

This Women’s Day, I stand with the working-class women who give everything to support their families. These mothers work long hours in tough conditions, often for unfair wages, with no protection or security. They are the unsung heroes of our society.

Today, I hope for a future where they are treated with the respect they deserve — where they earn fair wages for their hard work, have safe working conditions, and can rest knowing their children’s lives will be better. These women deserve a chance to build a future where their families can thrive, with equal opportunities for their children, safe environments, and dignity at work. Their strength is unbreakable, and it’s time we honor them by giving them the future they’ve earned.

#WomensDay#WorkingClassWomen#FairWagesForAll#SafeWorkplaces#RespectWomenWorkers#EmpowerMothers#EqualOpportunities#UnsungHeroes#DignityAtWork#fightforfairness

The Power of Love and Faith: Changing Lives, One Step at a Time!

Dear Friends,

Chadni was her mother’s greatest treasure. A mother who once prayed to God to trade everything she had just to keep her fragile, premature baby alive. Her husband, in silent devotion, sold his rickshaw to afford his daughter’s treatment, and together, they fought against fate. To Chadni’s mother, Chadni’s smile was more than just a moment of happiness; it was proof that love could defy the impossible, that faith could keep her world alive.

I took her heartwarming story 10 years ago. Over time and the cycle of fate, I found Chadni again 5 years ago and discovered that her parents were deeply conflicted about Chadni’s education and future.

Asma, a mother who had already endured so much, now faced another battle ensuring her daughter’s future. As a daily wage worker, she could barely provide food. I knew I had to step in. Since then, I have taken full responsibility for Chadni’s upbringing, ensuring she has access to education, food, clothing, and everything she needs as a child.

Today, my heart fills with joy as I witness Chadni starting 4th grade this year, taking one more step toward a brighter future!

By the grace of God, five years ago, I took on the responsibility of educating 30 children for their entire academic journey. Every month, I continue to do my best to support them, ensuring they complete their education and secure stable jobs.

My friends, your continued support, love, and faith in me make this journey possible. Nothing would have been easy without you all. Your kindness fuels my mission every single day.

Please keep me in your prayers so that I may continue to provide for these children until they achieve their dreams.

I am sharing with you some old and new pictures of Chadni—moments that remind us all that love, hope, and determination can change lives.

With Love and light,

_GMB Akash

A New Beginning for Santa and Her Father.

Dear Friends,

One of the most fulfilling parts of my work is helping people in need become self-sufficient. When I meet someone struggling, I try to understand their skills and needs through deep conversations. Then, I help them start a small business that can support their family and meet their basic needs — and sometimes even more. I find suppliers, gather materials, provide training, and continue to guide and encourage them.

Santa’s father was a cobbler who had to travel far for work, earning very little money. He was a widower, struggling to care for his 10-year-old daughter, Santa, who had fallen into drug use and often disappeared for nights at a time. Fearing for her safety, he felt helpless and even resorted to chaining her inside their home to keep her from harm.

After many discussions, we decided to set up a vegetable business for him on a custom-made rickshaw van. This way, he could sell vegetables anywhere and earn cash daily, while Santa could stay with him and start living a better life.

The business is now running, and we’ve taken Santa to a doctor to check her health and provide guidance for her recovery.

Santa’s father promised to take care of the business and his daughter, knowing it’s his responsibility to build a new life for both of them.

— GMB Akash

The Magic and Soul of Nepal!

Nepal holds a special place in my heart. I’ve traveled there more than 30 times, yet every visit feels as exciting as the first. There’s an almost otherworldly charm to this land—the crisp air of the mountains, sunrises that set the Himalayas ablaze with gold, and ancient temples that seem to whisper stories from centuries past.

The streets pulse with life, prayer flags flutter in the breeze, and the scent of incense drifts through winding alleys, mingling with the deep, meditative chants from monasteries. But above all, it’s the people who make Nepal truly extraordinary. Their kindness, strength, and ever-present smiles create a warmth that feels like home. No matter what challenges they face, they welcome you with open arms and hearts full of generosity.

For a photographer, Nepal is an endless source of inspiration. Every corner hides a new discovery—a sunlit alley, a quiet moment of devotion, or a pair of eyes that tell an untold story. Each journey leaves me with fresh perspectives and a growing love for this incredible place. Nepal isn’t just a destination for me—it’s a part of my soul. And no matter how many times I go, I know I’ll always return. _GMB Akash


#Nepal #TravelDiaries #ExploreMore #HimalayanMagic #Kathmandu #Pokhara #StreetPhotography #HumanStories #CulturalJourney #VisitNepal #AdventureLovers #NepaliPeople #TravelWithHeart #NatureAndCulture

Dhaka – A City of Dreams and Struggles!

This city holds endless dreams, pain, hope, and despair—yet no one ever stops.

People fight every day, chasing a better tomorrow with dreams in their hearts.

Every day, new faces arrive from villages, their eyes full of hope, their hearts carrying stories of struggle.

Their dreams, their hardships, their fight to survive—this is what inspires my photography.

In their eyes, I see the true beauty of life, the strength to keep going, and the endless will to survive.

Through their struggles, I find the real meaning of life…

In Loving Memory: A Tribute to Julekha Khala and Uncle Alauddin

Many of you may remember Julekha Khala and uncle Alauddin whom I’ve shared about on my page several times.

From 2021, over the last 3 years, I took on the responsibilities of caring for them, like a son.

As many of you know, in 2021, I built a grocery store for Julekha Khala, as uncle Alauddin, bedridden in his 70s, was no longer able to earn for themselves. They were earning a good amount of money and living a happy life together for the last three years.

But it is with a very heavy heart that I share the sad news that recently, Auntie Julekha suddenly passed away and in her absence, it is almost certain that her 73 years old husband Alauddin, too, has passed in her absence within a week.

I will never forget the love and the blessings they always showered upon me during my every visit. Please keep them in your prayers.

May Allah (s.w.t.) grant them Jannatul-Firdaus, forgive their sins, and make their grave a place of comfort and light.

Ameen.

Bought a New Auto Rickshaw for Rakib: A New Beginning in His Life!

In a small village, Rakib’s life had been an extreme battle over the past year. After breaking his hand and losing his job at a local mill, he struggled to find work, leaving his family in a desperate situation. His wife faced her own hardships, often going without food and even struggling to afford milk for their baby.Alhamdulillah, last month I was able to buy them an auto-rickshaw, which has since become their lifeline.

This gift has truly transformed their lives. Rakib now earns 1,000 taka daily, offering much-needed relief for his family. The cost of the rickshaw was 1 lakh and 18 thousand taka (around $1,200).Thanks to your love and inspiration, their daily struggles have eased, and they are deeply grateful.

Please keep me in your prayers so that I can continue helping others.

With love and light,_GMB Akash

A Heartfelt Farewell to Saleha Khala and Nuru ChaCha: Cherishing Their Love and Memories!

Many of you may remember the beautiful couple, Saleha Khala and Nuru ChaCha, whom I’ve shared about on my page several times.

Over the last 8 years, starting in 2017, I took on the responsibilities of caring for them, like a son.

As many of you know, in 2021, during Ramadan, Uncle Nuru passed away. After his passing, I continued to care for Saleha Khala in every way possible.

It is with a very heavy heart that I share the sad news that last night, Auntie Saleha also passed away.

I will never forget the love they showered upon me during every visit. Please keep them in your prayers.

May Allah (s.w.t.) grant them Jannatul-Firdaus, forgive their sins, and make their grave a place of comfort and light. Ameen.

juror for the esteemed 2024 Martial Arts Photo Contest in South Korea.

Dear Friends, I am honored to share that I have been selected as a juror for the esteemed 2024 Martial Arts Photo Contest in South Korea, organized by the UNESCO International Centre of Martial Arts (ICM). Your unwavering support and encouragement are invaluable to me, and I am deeply grateful for it. As I embark on this exciting venture, I ask for your continued thoughts and well-wishes. For more details about the contest, please visit: www.unescoicmphoto2024.gongmo.work/index.php.

Love and Light! GMB Akash

A Journey Through Time: Life in Nepal’s Elderly Home!


Here and there, elderly people sit in the courtyard and on the shrine platform, lost in memories of past happiness. Or is this a place where they are left by their families to die? The questions are countless, with no answers except those found within. They endure daily routines in this old home, where the future is no longer a concern. My heart is moved: May God bless and give them solace. – GMB Akash

Entering the Briddhasram at Pashupathinath feels like stepping back in time by at least fifty years, to a world that moves very slowly.

A damp photo of a grandchild beside an elderly woman shows her smiling as she remembers a loved one she hasn’t seen in ten years, yet keeps her image alive in her mind. I must capture their essence to preserve their memories.

Here, grey-haired residents spend hours idly in the courtyard and on the shrine platform. Some watch you curiously as you pass, while others are engaged in simple tasks like praying or dusting off clothes. The sounds are minimal: the clink of a wheeled support or a faintly playing broken radio.

The Social Welfare Centre Briddhasram, Nepal’s only government-run elderly home, has been operating since 1977. It houses up to 240 people suffering from ailments associated with old age, such as paralysis and failing eyesight.

For some, the sight of people at the end of their lives here is disheartening, but for others, it offers a refuge from a fast-paced world. Despite the lack of communication among residents, they live closely together and care deeply for one another, retaining a profound sense of humanity.

Many believe in the moral duty to care for aging parents. I agree; every child should fulfill this obligation, ensuring their parents are not left alone in their final years.

“Through my lens, I listen to their silent voices in solitude and silence, capturing their pain and stories. My camera merges with their suffering, preserving their silent wounds.” – GMB Akash

Life Inside Indonesia’s Mental Hospitals!  

Indonesia, a country with 240 million people, is facing significant challenges in providing mental health care. There are only about 500 psychiatrists in the entire country, leading to a shortage and leaving approximately 750,000 Indonesians with mental health issues without the proper care they need.

Due to cultural beliefs associating mental illness with evil spirits, many people resort to traditional herbal remedies and prayers, which may not always provide effective results in addressing mental health conditions.

For those who do seek medical help, mental health facilities in Indonesia often have harsh conditions, such as chaining, caging, and inadequate resources. This highlights the pressing need for reforms to ensure humane treatment and better facilities for individuals with mental health needs.

My solo exhibition in Finland!

Dear friends,

I’m thrilled to announce my solo exhibition, “My Equal Life,” recently held at Entresse Library in Espoo Center, Finland.

Thank you to everyone who visited and supported the exhibition!

Throughout 2023-2024, “My Equal Life” will be showcased in various cities across Finland. This series aims to raise awareness about global inequality, foster empathy, and share compelling stories through photography.

These exhibitions are supported and organized by The Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Finland, and Caritas Finland.

I offer my heartfelt gratitude for your constant love and support.

_GMB Akash

Surviving the Toxic Charcoal Plant!

In Manila’s North Harbour, the Ulingeros family grapples with the harsh reality of working in a hazardous toxic charcoal plant, where they earn meager wages. The Ulingan area is known for its dangerous conditions, with many of its laborers, including children as young as six or seven years old, enduring the risks of the toxic environment. Despite these challenges, families like the Ulingeros persist in this perilous work, driven by the necessity to survive in Manila’s unforgiving urban landscape, where economic hardship forces difficult choices upon its residents.

A Proud Moment: Ilma’s Admission to B.Sc. Nursing

What a happy and proud moment for me. Recently, one of my students, Ilma, achieved the second position in the Jessore division for the B.Sc. in Nursing program. She excelled in a highly competitive exam where 20 thousands of talented students from across Bangladesh competed and fifteen hundreds are selected. Alhamdulillah, she has now completed her admission process and begun her classes this week.

Ilma is a brilliant student. By the grace of God, I have been taking care of all her educational expenses since her childhood. She also achieved a ‘Golden A+’ in her HSC from the science group. If Allah wills, I will continue to support her until she completes her studies.

She dreams of becoming an honest and exemplary nurse and humbly requests your prayers. Please keep her in your thoughts. This opportunity to study nursing will help fulfill not only her dreams but also those of her mother and me.

With Love and Light,

_GMB Akash

Taposhi achieved a Golden A+ and dreams of becoming a doctor.

Women’s empowerment is very important to me. Every year, I select brilliant students who have positive attitude towards life with hope and ambition for a brighter future. However these bright souls find themselves held back by the heavy burden of SSC examination fees and setbacks due to financial support.

Taposhi is one of those promising students. She got a ‘Golden A+’ in her SSC exam from science group and I can’t express how happy and proud I am for her.

By the grace of God, I have been covering all of her educational expenses every month. This year, she has been admitted to college for her HSC studies in the science section. She wants to become a doctor. Please keep her in your prayers, so that she may continue her studies and her aspirations to become a doctor and fulfill her dreams…

Love and Light

_GMB Akash

20 solo exhibitions in the last two years, from 2022 to 2023, in Finland.

Dear friends,

I am happy to share that my current solo exhibition has been on display at Rantasalmi Library for the last two weeks.The final full day of the exhibition is December 27, 2023.

My 10 solo exhibition of “My Equal Life,” took place in various cities across Finland throughout the year 2023. The exhibition was supported and organized by The Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Finland, and Caritas Finland, and its aim was to raise awareness about global inequality, arouse compassion, and share the experiences of people through my photographs and related stories.

I will be happy to share some moments from my exhibition with you all ❤️

The pictures and stories are also on display on the exhibition’s website, and it is touring seven cities in Finland: Turku, Kouvola, Vaasa, Helsinki, Kuopio, Oulu, and Jyväskylä.

Thank you for your support and interest in “My Equal Life.”

Revolution in Pink!

The Gulabi Gang in India, or the “Pink Gang,” founded by Sampat Pal Devi in 2006, is a powerful social movement of rural women in Uttar Pradesh. They wear pink saris symbolizing solidarity, actively combating injustices, practicing self-defense, and challenging gender norms, gaining national and international recognition. Despite facing opposition, the Pink Gang inspires change, emphasizing the ongoing need to address gender inequality and injustice in society.

Providing Lifelong Support for an Elderly Couple in Need.

Dear friends,

You may all remember Abdul Mojid Chacha and Chan Bahar Khala, a loving couple.

Uncle Mojid, who was a hardworking and honest person, can’t work like before due to age. However, he does not want to see his wife in poverty, so he chooses to beg in different cities, hiding his struggles from his wife, who would otherwise feel distressed for her husband.

A love story that touched all your hearts. A love story that shows the depth of care between a husband and wife, proving that wealth and abundance are not the reasons for their love.

As this old couple do not have anyone to support 2 months ago, I took all their responsibilities -like, food, medicine and everything they need for the rest of their life.

I visit them every month and buy all the necessary items myself, including food, grocery and clothes.⁣

Helping a helpless person is really a great blessing and my friends; I can’t thank you and pray for you enough for everything you all do for me. Please know that those who are constantly supporting and inspiring these good deeds, the prayers of me and these helpless people must reach your doorsteps.

Please keep them in your prayers.⁣

Sending my love and prayers to all of you.⁣

Love and Light ⁣

_GMB Akash

Marisol Martin came from Spain to Bangladesh in order to join me in my exclusive six days One on One photography workshop. October, 2023.

Marisol Martin came from Spain to Bangladesh in order to join me in my exclusive six days One on One photography workshop. October, 2023

To check the other participants work visits my workshop website: www.gmbakashworkshop.com

If you are interested to join this exclusive program send an email to know detail at akashphoto@gmail.com

About the workshop: The focus of this customized program is to teach photography going beyond boundaries. Each student will have exclusive access to me through the duration of the workshop, giving them the opportunity to take advantage of my work experience, teachings, and methodologies. Due to the intimate nature of these workshops and the real world working environment, each student can expect to learn and experience much more than they would during one year in a standard university photography program. Each workshop is six days long and set in locations that are rich in culture with a wealth of photographic and documentary subject matter.

#photographyworkshop#travelphotography#streetphotography#documentaryphotography#portraitphotography

My TEDx Talk at Comilla University.

Dear friends, I had the incredible opportunity to share my photography journey and how it’s changing lives at TEDx Comilla University  September 30, 2023 in Bangladesh. 

The experience was nothing short of amazing, and I’m immensely grateful to the TEDx Comilla University team for being such wonderful hosts.

The event was made even more special by the presence of so many beautiful souls.

Spreading Joy!

My friends, 

I hope that you’re all doing well. This week in Dhaka again, I managed the very difficult challenge of  gathering around 100 street children and treating them to a nutritious meal at a local restaurant.

Only this year 2023 until today 6,103,030 people died from hunger in the World and it’s counting…   

I try to feed this less fortunate street children regularly whenever I get a chance. To inspire you all, I am sharing some heart-warming, happy images. 

 

Please consider providing a meal to a hungry stomach whenever the opportunity arises.   Thank you, my friends, for always supporting me and my work. Your support always uplifts my spirit. I am eternally thankful.

Love and Light! 

 _GMB GMB Akash

New school building for students!

Dear Friends,

In addition to the individuals and families that I have been helping by giving small businesses and other solutions to impoverished people’s lives, one of my most important social work projects is to educate young unprivileged rural children.

As a school extension of GMB Akash Institute of Photography in Dhaka, a few partners and I have built a rural school building outside of Dhaka for children who have no access to education.

They come from 8 different villages outside of Dhaka from day labour families who have never received any education previously. This rural branch of the school was started 7 years ago under a tree with 30 students. Now there are more than 200+ students and every year we also provide them with new school dress.

10 amazing teachers who receives monthly wages as well as training for teaching our students. These children will be the first generation to ever be educated in this region.

As you all know, whatever I earn from selling my photography books, Prints of my photos, from my photography workshops and assignments, I use for the betterment of the lives of people in need and the people I worked with.

And my friends, without your support and love I might not have come this far. I am always thankful and grateful.

Our small initiatives can change so many peoples’ lives if we want.

Sending my Love and prayers

_GMB Akash

Empowering Dreams: Mahabub’s Path from Street Begging to School.

Dear friends,⁣ Remember Mahabub, a positive soul who faced adversity with a smile. Despite losing both of his hands in an accident while flying a kite seven years ago still he remains grateful. As his parents were ill he had to beg on the streets. After learning about his story of suffering and courage, I gifted him an Auto Rickshaw, which cost around 1 lac taka, allowing them to earn a living. And Mahbub has also been admitted to school in the fifth grade.Thank you my dearest people for your continueoue support. I am grateful. Love and Light! _GMB Akash

Four Years of Dedicated Support: Nurturing Jhuma’s Future.

Dear friends,

Last week I shared the story of Jhuma. Many of you may not have recognized Jhuma by looking at that old picture of her. That photo and story of Jhuma were taken almost four years ago when I first met with Jhuma at her workplace where she lives with her full family.

The great news is, Jhuma has been going to school for the last four years and she is now in class 4. I have repaid half of Jhumas Father’s loan, and I am trying to arrange the other half of the loan soon.

For the last four years I have been fulfilling all the responsibilities of Jhuma and carrying her all shorts of expenses as like her food, dress, study materials, and everything she needs as a child. In addition, every month I have to pay her family an amount of money, that she could earn as child labor And I promised her I would take care of her studies until she finished her graduation.

In the grace of God, like Jhuma, I have been taking care of 30 children’s responsibilities for 4 years now. I always pray for the ability to cover their educational expenses until they complete their studies and secure jobs. I am sharing old and new pictures of Jhuma with you, and I kindly request that you keep her in your prayers. Sending love and light, _GMB Akash.

You also have the option to support this project. Please feel free to send me a direct message for details or consider joining my Patreon.

https://www.patreon.com/gmbakash

Thank you for your kind support and for showing your humanity.

Best Regards,

GMB Akash

Climate Refugees in Bangladesh: A Dire Consequence of Global Warming!

They are prisoners of disaster, confined within an open prison, battling daily for survival. Their invisible helplessness goes unheard, their cries failing to reach the ears of the global populace. Nonetheless, they persist in their fight for life. Collecting the remnants of their former homes, they create shelters to shield themselves. Amid being ignored and marginalized by the world, they reach out to alleviate each other’s pain.

Bangladesh serves as a poignant illustration of climate change’s impact, epitomized by its climate refugees. Displaced by the harsh effects of a shifting climate, these vulnerable individuals confront rising sea levels, intensified cyclones, and erratic monsoons, compelling them to abandon their homes and seek refuge in makeshift settlements or urban centers.

Their struggle is exacerbated by a lack of recognition and legal safeguards, exposing them to heightened risks. Disrupted agricultural practices lead to food insecurity and migration, further straining resources in urban areas. Urgent global attention is imperative as Bangladesh’s climate refugees underscore the tangible repercussions of climate change and the necessity for international collaboration. Resolving their predicament demands a multifaceted approach, from legal frameworks to local infrastructure, with their future compelling a unified response to address climate change and fulfill the moral duty to aid the most vulnerable.

My photo book ‘Survivors’ is not only an important presentation of my 10 years’ work, but it is also significant to me in many ways.

“My photo book ‘Survivors’ is not only an important presentation of my 10 years’ work, but it is also significant to me in many ways. Surviving in a poor country — facing adversity daily — is akin to a lifetime of tragedy. So, in a number of ways, the images presented on these pages depict my own experiences as well. My journeys connect me to the many characters. Sometimes, I had to run, take a ride on the roof of a moving train, sleep on a flooded floor, and spend many hours walking the maze of avenues through sprawling city slums. While photography is a big task, my willingness to serve the people whom I photograph is even more challenging. I am gifting a business/source of income to each family I am able to help from my book ‘Survivors’. Finding people from the book whom I captured 5-15 years ago, talking/sharing ideas with them, finding the right business, and educating them, and monitoring them become tougher than photography. But I believe every amazing achievement starts with an impossibility. Now, after seeing these happy families of Survivors, I realize that, when many ordinary people come together and do small things, they can change the world. – GMB Akash

Dario Mulas Debois came from Italy to Bangladesh in order to join me in my exclusive six days One on One photography workshop.

Dario Mulas Debois came from Italy to Bangladesh in order to join me in my exclusive six days One on One photography workshop. To check the other participants work visits my workshop website: http://www.gmbakashworkshop.com If you are interested to join this exclusive program send an email to know detail at akashphoto@gmail.com About the workshop: The focus of this customized program is to teach photography going beyond boundaries. Each student will have exclusive access to me through the duration of the workshop, giving them the opportunity to take advantage of my work experience, teachings, and methodologies. Due to the intimate nature of these workshops and the real world working environment, each student can expect to learn and experience much more than they would during one year in a standard university photography program. Each workshop is six days long and set in locations that are rich in culture with a wealth of photographic and documentary subject matter.

SHIP’S GRAVEYARD IN PAKISTAN

The Gaddani Ship Breaking Yard stands as a paradoxical testament to human resilience and struggle. This industrial site is where colossal ocean vessels from around the world come to meet their end. An army of unsung heroes toils relentlessly, their lives shaped by the arduous, perilous, and often underappreciated work they perform day in and day out.

The process of ship breaking involves dismantling decommissioned or end-of-life ships to salvage valuable materials, such as steel, iron, and non-ferrous metals. Gaddani is home to one of the world’s largest ship breaking yards, attracting thousands of laborers seeking employment.

The workers in Gaddani’s ship breaking yard are typically from impoverished backgrounds and often have limited education. Drawn by the prospect of earning a livelihood, they embark on this risky venture. They work grueling hours, battling hazardous conditions, extreme temperatures, and unyielding physical demands. The dangers they face range from accidental fires, exposure to toxic chemicals, and the constant risk of being crushed under the weight of massive structures.

Workers in Gaddani’s ship breaking yard often find themselves subjected to exploitative practices. Many laborers work without proper safety gear or adequate training, which leaves them exposed to severe health hazards. Despite the dangerous nature of their job, the majority of these workers are not covered by any insurance or formal social security, leaving them vulnerable to economic ruin in case of accidents or injuries.

The health and environmental impacts of ship breaking cannot be ignored. Toxic substances, such as asbestos, lead, and mercury, are released during the dismantling process, leading to severe health issues for the workers and the surrounding communities. The lack of waste management infrastructure exacerbates the problem, as hazardous materials end up polluting the nearby land and sea, causing ecological damage.

The ship breaking yard in Gaddani, Pakistan, serves as a grim reminder of the struggles faced by workers who labor relentlessly to provide for themselves and their families. Their efforts are often overlooked, and their sacrifices go unrecognized.

While the shipbreaking industry remains essential for recycling valuable materials, it is vital that we acknowledge the challenges faced by these workers and work towards ensuring their safety, wellbeing, and rights. The time has come to shed light on this hidden world and extend a helping hand to those who risk their lives daily, forging a path towards a brighter, more sustainable future for Gaddani’s shipbreaking workers.

Asma doing her final yearof Nursing.

Can you believe an orphan girl Asma is now doing her Nursing Final Year?!! Alhamdulillah.

By the grace of God, I have been taking care of all the expenses of her studies for the last 6 years.

It was 2016 when she was preparing for her SSC exam, but she was struggling to manage the big amount of money for her form fillup. Luckily Ashma came to my notice as like my other hundreds of helpless students.

Asma is currently studying nursing at the Monno Medical College. It will take another year for her nursing program to be completed, and after six months of internship, I hope she can secure a good job, which will allow her to support her family and enable to fulfill her own dreams.

Please keep her in your prayers so that she can successfully complete her studies and achieve a beautiful life.

_GMB Akash

The Unseen Warriors: Dhaka’s Scavenging Heroes.

In the bustling streets of Dhaka, a heartbreaking scene unfolds daily. It is a sight that grips the senses with disgust yet remains an integral part of maintaining the urban sanitation system. Even in this year of 2023, the persistence of manual scavenging is a tragic and disheartening reality that goes unnoticed by many passersby each day. This hazardous and inhumane practice involves the manual cleaning of underground sewage systems; despite being banned by law.

The individuals who enter the manholes without any safeguards are also someone’s fathers or husbands who have someone to love. They too feel pain and bleed red blood when they get hurt. By becoming dirty, they cleanse us. No one is asking for a rocket, but providing them with some safety guards, necessary clothing, and oxygen masks, can’t we do that?

Even in this year of 2023, people are choosing this profession because poverty and a lack of alternative employment opportunities force vulnerable individuals into this dangerous occupation. The working conditions for these scavengers are unimaginably harsh as they descend into dark and cramped spaces without proper safety equipment, exposing themselves to toxic gases, suffocation, and the risk of drowning or collapsing structures.

The absence of protective gear also leaves them vulnerable to diseases such as fever, fatigue, cholera, typhoid, asthma, polio, eye infections, hepatitis, skin burns or irritation, and endless infections caused by hazardous substances. Furthermore, these workers face severe social stigma and discrimination, leading to their marginalization within their communities and limited opportunities for education and economic mobility.

Despite existing labor regulations, the lack of enforcement perpetuates a cycle of poverty and exploitation for these sanitation workers in Bangladesh.

Argentine photographer Sergio Belmonte embarks on an unforgettable journey to Bangladesh.

Passionate Argentine photographer, Sergio Belmonte, embarked on an unforgettable journey to Bangladesh for his one-to-one photography workshop. Little did he know that this experience would deeply touch his heart, immersing him in the warmth and admiration the Bangladeshi people have for Argentina’s football team.

With gratitude, Sergio thanks the people of Bangladesh for embracing him with affection. His photographs aim to pay tribute to the beauty and spirit of this remarkable country and its people.

Exploring Bangladesh through his lens, Sergio discovered its exquisite beauty. From bustling Dhaka to the serene countryside, every corner held a unique story. Locals welcomed him, sharing insights into their rich heritage and traditions.

Check out my workshop website at www.gmbakashworkshop.com to see the other participants’ work. If you’re interested in joining this exclusive program, email me at akashphoto@gmail.com for details.

About the workshop: It’s a customized photography program that goes beyond boundaries. Each student gets exclusive access to me throughout the workshop, benefiting from my experience, teachings, and methods. These intimate workshops offer a real-world working environment where students learn and experience much more than in a standard university photography program. The workshops last six days and take place in culturally rich locations with abundant photographic and documentary subjects.

The Power of Clean Water: A Life-Changing Gift for Over 100 Families.

“The best charity is to provide water.”

My friends, by the grace of God, I have been able to provide a deep-water pump for a whole village. More than 100 people collect water from this deep tubewell.

Due to its proximity to Dhaka City, it is almost impossible for them to draw water from a normal hand pressure tap. Water can only be extracted by deep tube-wells in only some specific areas in this region.

Sahanaj Begum said, “I moved to this area after getting married 30 years ago. For the past three decades, I have been living in this region and experiencing ongoing water-related challenges. Initially, we relied on pond water, but unfortunately the increasing heat has caused the pond to dry up in summer seasons. Even we don’t have enough water for our basic needs like food and drinking in our area.

Through a week of hard work, time and effort I was able to install this Deep Water Pump with the help of the villagers. It cost around 70,000 taka to install the deep water pump.

My friends, the villagers have sent their heartfelt prayers, gratitude and best wishes for all of you who have contributed for the water pump and tubewell.

They said, this tubewell was the biggest gift of their life in this hot summer.

More than 100 people (families) collect water everyday. I am also planning to make a small bathroom besides the deep tubewell, so that the women who come to collect water can take a shower as well.

Please keep me in your prayers, so that I can continue my journey of improving the lives of those in need.

Love and Light

_GMB Akash

Transforming Lives.

Dear friends,

A few days ago, I shared the story of Mobarok. Many of you may not have recognized Mobarok by looking at that old picture of him.

Three years ago, I found Mobarok and came across his story, which touched my heart. I took responsibility and paid off his parents’ loan, giving them a chance to start anew.

It brings me joy to witness the remarkable transformation in their lives. They have moved to a new location and are now self-sufficient, making great strides in their financial progress.

students attending their class.

During these past three years, I have been fulfilling all the responsibilities of Mobarok and covering all sorts of expenses such as his food, clothing, study materials, and everything he needs as a child. Additionally, every month I have been providing an amount of money to his family that he would have earned as child labor. I also promised him that I would take care of his studies until he finishes his graduation.

As you all know, by the grace of God, similarly I took responsibilities of educating 30 children for their entire lives three years ago, and I am doing my best to fulfill my responsibilities every month.

My friends, your positive support, pure love, and strong faith in me, help me to move forward every single day. Know that; nothing would have been so easy without you all. My journey could never have gone so far without you. I am so grateful.

Please keep me on your prayers so that God grant me the ability to provide for the expenses of their studies until they complete their education and secure jobs.

I am sharing with you some old and new pictures of Mobarok.

Love and Light,

_GMB Akash