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Ramu Kallepalli, July 20, 2024
Hinduism teaches us of 3 main things: Nirvana, Karma/Dharma and fruits of Karma/Destiny. Nirvana is a state where self expands to encompass all of existence. Photojournalists, despite danger, taking pictures of Donald Trump inches away from reigning bullets, vividly illustrate some of these core tenets. Their dharma, their sacred duty, is to capture reality – the beautiful, the heartbreaking, and everything in between – without fear or expectation of reward.
Recently, four photojournalists – Evan Vucci (AP), Anna Moneymaker (Getty Images), Jabin Botsford (Washington Post), and Doug Mills (The New York Times) – faced danger head-on to fulfill their dharma. Despite the risk, they documented a pivotal moment in American history. Vucci described entering “work mode” amidst gunfire, while Moneymaker emphasized the responsibility of capturing history as it unfolds. Because of their work/karma, they produced some of the iconic images of our time.
These courageous individuals join a long line of photojournalists who have documented America’s darkest hours. Mills poignantly compares their actions to Ron Edmonds, who captured the shooting of President Reagan in 1981.
Moneymaker acknowledges these giants as her mentors, striving to uphold the profession’s high standards. Vucci echoes this sentiment, expressing pride in carrying the torch of photojournalism.
Their dedication exemplifies the core of dharma – fulfilling one’s duty not worrying about the fruits of their karma/destiny. Like the vast network of variables influencing an AI’s next word, destiny lies beyond our control. However, by focusing on responsible action, like these photographers, we too can uphold our own dharma.
Assassination attempt on President Trump, serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life, the importance of doing your duty, and the unwavering dedication of photojournalists who risk everything for the sake of truth.