Saran Dashnamoorthy is widely recognized as India’s foremost photographer of Mount Arunachala and Tiruvannamalai, celebrated for capturing the purity and striking beauty of each moment. His photographs are not just images; they are a visual narrative that transcends the ordinary, offering viewers a glimpse into the vast, sacred landscape of Tiruvannamalai. Each of his photos is imbued with a simple grandeur, reflecting the profound spiritual essence of this
holy land. Born at the foot of Mount Arunachala, Saran’s connection to the mountain is deeply personal. As a child, the mountain was his playground, the first and last sight that greeted him each day. He explored its rugged terrains, becoming intimately familiar with the magnificence and deep silence
that radiated from Arunachala. This early bond with the mountain left an indelible mark on his heart and continues to inspire his work.
In his youth, Saran had a life-changing encounter with a saint atop Arunachala. It was during this time, immersed in the saint’s presence, that he experienced profound spiritual awakenings. He realized that Arunachala was no ordinary hill but a source of immense spiritual power. This realization kindled within him a lifelong desire to be close to the mountain and to capture its
beauty through photography. Saran’s journey into the visual arts began when he guided a filmmaker visiting Tiruvannamalai. The filmmaker imparted invaluable knowledge, and as Saran observed the ever-changing
landscapes and the nuances of nature, his passion for photography deepened. This experience further fueled his commitment to sharing the beauty of Arunachala through his lens.

Arunachala is revered as an embodiment of Lord Shiva, the Hindu god known as the destroyer of ignorance. It is believed that the mountain can bring peace to those who seek it, drawing them into a profound silence and helping them connect with their innermost selves. Every year, seekers from around the globe come to Tiruvannamalai, drawn by the promise of inner peace and
spiritual transformation that Arunachala offers.