Driven by an unwavering love for photography and the constant support of her family, freelance photographer Sakeena Ali is documenting Kashmir’s people, culture and traditions—one frame at a time.
KNZ /TMJ Desk
Srinagar, July 5(KNZ/TMJ): Long before sunrise, while much of the Valley is still asleep, Budgam-based freelance photographer Sakeena Ali is often already on the road with her camera in hand, ready to capture moments that speak louder than words.
For Sakeena, photography is not merely a hobby or a source of income—it is a passion that defines her. Every assignment, every journey and every photograph is an opportunity to preserve memories, document traditions and showcase the beauty and diversity of Kashmir through her lens.
“I have always loved photography. It is my passion, and every photograph I take tells a story. Capturing people’s emotions, traditions and important moments gives me immense satisfaction,” Sakeena said.
As a freelance photographer, she has travelled across different parts of Kashmir covering cultural programmes, religious gatherings, festivals, public events and everyday life. She believes that even the simplest moments can become extraordinary when viewed through the camera.
One of her most demanding assignments came during the Muharram commemorations. After covering events in Budgam, Sakeena travelled to Srinagar to document the Youm-e-Ashura procession at Zadibal on the 10th of Muharram.
Recalling the experience, she said she left her home at around 6 a.m. along with one of her friends. Owing to traffic diversions and security arrangements around Zadibal, they had to leave their vehicle and walk a considerable distance before reaching the procession route.
“The journey was physically exhausting, but I never considered giving up. When photography is your passion, every challenge becomes part of the journey. The happiness of capturing meaningful moments makes every hardship worthwhile,” she said.
Sakeena believes photography has the unique ability to preserve history, emotions and traditions in a single frame. Whether documenting a religious procession, a cultural celebration or the everyday lives of people, she strives to capture authentic moments that reflect the spirit of Kashmir.
Behind her journey, she says, stands the unwavering support of her family, particularly her brother, Sajid Ali Mir, whose encouragement has strengthened her resolve to pursue her dream.
“My brother, Sajid Ali Mir, has always believed in me and supported me at every step. His encouragement has given me the confidence to continue following my passion and overcome every challenge that comes my way,” she said.
Looking ahead, Sakeena hopes to travel to more places across Kashmir, capture stories that deserve to be remembered and continue growing as a freelance photographer. She also hopes her journey encourages more young women to pursue photography with confidence and determination.
For Sakeena Ali, every click of the shutter is more than just a photograph—it is a story, a memory and a timeless reflection of Kashmir’s people, culture and heritage, captured through the eyes of someone whose greatest passion is preserving moments that matter.(KNZ/TMJ)
