In the ever-evolving world of technology, individuals often find innovative ways to merge their passions with emerging fields. One such individual is Mr. Jayakrishnan V M, a talented photographer and a civil servant, who has seamlessly integrated his love for photography with the captivating realm of aerial photography and videography using drones.
Speaking with Indian Masterminds, 2021 batch IAS officer Jayakrishnan V M, who is the Assistant Collector of Thrissur, Kerala, shared about his journey as a photographer and as a civil servant.
THE PHOTOGRAPHER
Mr. Jayakrishnan’s journey as a photographer began nearly a decade ago during his college days, when he first delved into DSLR photography. Initially, it was a hobby but, over time, his passion grew stronger. As he honed his skills, he began to consider the possibility of pursuing a career in photography, viewing it as a potential backup option or an alternative path to his main aspiration of joining the civil services.
From DSLR photography, he shifted primarily to drone photography. However, he previously explored portrait, landscape, documentary photography. “I tried for wildlife photography as well, but the outcome didn’t come well,” he shared. The allure of capturing breathtaking bird’s eye views and showcasing the rich diversity of India fuelled his passion for this unique form of artistic expression.
THE CIVIL SERVICE ASPIRANT
His decision to pursue civil services stems from his desire for diversity and a broad range of experiences. Initially, he embarked on an engineering degree course in NIT Calicut but realised it wasn’t his true calling. He then went on to pursue BSc in Physics from Mar Ivanios College under Kerala University “After joining the degree course in Physics, in the initial days, clearing civil services became my dream,” the officer mentioned.
Persistence and determination paid off as he progressed through multiple attempts in the civil services exam. Although he narrowly missed the final list by a single mark in his second attempt, he persevered and eventually achieved success in his third attempt, securing All India Rank 444.
THE QUIZZER
Beyond his civil services exam preparations, he actively engaged in enhancing his knowledge and sharing it with others as well. During his preparation days, he used to participate in quizzes to test his general knowledge and hosted quiz as well.
Recognizing the importance of quizzes in expanding one’s knowledge beyond textbooks, he believes that they play a vital role in keeping people informed about current events and the world around them. “I recently got the opportunity to host a quiz in one of the colleges in Thrissur,” he said.
THE ASSISTANT COLLECTOR
Mr. Jayakrishnan’s journey as an Assistant Collector in Thrissur has been an enriching and memorable experience. He says that each day has brought new lessons and encounters with people from diverse backgrounds, broadening his perspective. During the training period, he got the opportunity to work in various departments.
“Interacting with people from different walks of life and background daily has broadened my mind,” he said.
As his training period draws to a close, he reflects on the invaluable experiences he has gained so far, the countless lives he has touched, and the memories that will stay with him forever. With his passion for photography and commitment to public service, Mr. Jayakrishnan V M is poised to embark on a promising future, where his talent and dedication will continue to make a difference.
