Sony BBC Earth has successfully concluded the fourth edition of its highly anticipated annual photography contest, ‘Earth In Focus’, celebrating the vibrant natural and cultural diversity of India.

Themed ‘One World, Many Frames,’ this year’s contest invited photography enthusiasts from across the country to showcase India’s essence through three captivating subcategories Markets: A Vibrant Melting Pot, Ancient Marvels, and Wildlife.

The contest received an overwhelming response, with over 2,000 entries pouring in from across the nation. After rigorous evaluation, three photographers emerged as winners: Soumayan Biswas, Mukesh Tripathi, and Akshita Jain, whose remarkable captures brought to life the country’s heritage, traditions, and natural beauty.

The winners, crowned for their extraordinary skills in the respective categories, have been awarded the GoPro HERO12 and a coveted feature on the Sony BBC Earth channel. Their work embodies the spirit of the contest, freezing fleeting moments that narrate powerful stories of India’s diversity.

Additionally, the top 10 participants were invited to an exclusive photography masterclass conducted by renowned wildlife photographer and contest judge, Shivang Mehta, where they learned the finer nuances of photography and storytelling.

Speaking about the initiative, Rohan Jain, Business Operations Head at Sony AATH and Marketing Head for Movies, Regional, and Infotainment at Sony Pictures Networks India, expressed his admiration for the contest’s participants. “The overwhelming response to Sony BBC Earth’s Earth in Focus has been truly inspiring. This platform continues to encourage photographers to tell compelling stories through their lens. My heartfelt congratulations to the winners and participants for their creativity and dedication. A special thanks to Shivang Mehta for mentoring and guiding these talented individuals.”

Contest judge Shivang Mehta praised the caliber of entries, saying, “Each photograph we received told a unique story, reflecting the remarkable diversity of our planet. It’s incredible to witness such skill and detail in the work of budding photographers. These images serve as a reminder of our responsibility to protect and celebrate the natural world.”

The winning photographs highlight the beauty and richness of India’s cultural and natural heritage. From the vibrant chaos of bustling markets to the architectural grandeur of ancient marvels and the serene wilderness of Indian wildlife, the contest presented a multifaceted perspective of the country.

The ‘Earth In Focus’ contest has proven to be more than a competition; it is a platform to celebrate the art of photography while fostering awareness about India’s diverse heritage. By creating opportunities for talented photographers, Sony BBC Earth continues to inspire conversations about conservation and the preservation of our planet.

Marking yet another successful chapter, ‘Earth In Focus’ stands as a testament to the transformative power of photography in connecting people to the world around them.