Balancing the meticulous demands of tax administration with the serene beauty of nature photography might seem like a contradiction. Yet, for Shaurya Shashwat Shukla, an IRS officer of the 2007 batch, it’s a harmonious blend that feeds his soul. Serving as the Additional Commissioner in the Administration & Headquarters Wing of the Income Tax Department, Lucknow, Shaurya’s career has spanned various roles in the Department of Revenue, including investigation, training, and legal representation. But beyond his professional persona lies another passion—capturing the untamed beauty of nature through the lens of his camera.
Reflecting on his journey into photography, Shaurya shared with Indian Masterminds, “My main passion has always been experiencing the unadulterated cosmos in all its manifestations. This has kept me exploring music, literature, and various fine arts right from an early age. A natural urge, thereafter, was to share my joy and learning with others through storytelling. Photography struck me as a great tool to give effect to that passion. It grew upon me gradually during my training days in 2007-08, but it was only in 2014 that I took up photography earnestly.”
A LIFE GUIDED BY TWO PASSIONS
Shaurya’s foray into the world of photography wasn’t an overnight transformation but rather a gradual exploration of creativity that matured over the years.
“It’s an ongoing balancing act,” he says about managing his dual roles. “But active planning and management do help. Each domain has enriched me to be better in the other.”
He finds inspiration in the lives of others who have successfully blended professional duties with personal passions, particularly Shri Anil Bharadwaj, a fellow IRS officer, and a conservation photographer, who has set the highest standards in both fields.
In his role as an IRS officer, Shaurya has been part of the intricate machinery that oversees India’s tax administration. From his early days under the mentorship of Shri Ashok Jha, a distinguished officer of the 1990 batch, to his current position, he has shown dedication and precision.
“Being mentored by a living legend like Shri Ashok Jha has been a privilege. It set the foundation for my journey, and I’ve had the chance to serve in diverse fields, which has only broadened my perspective,” he told Indian Masterminds.
THROUGH THE LENS OF A PHOTOGRAPHER
Shaurya’s photography is not about capturing the most exotic or thrilling elements of nature but about finding beauty in every moment. “I haven’t ever felt any favoritism when it comes to nature,” he remarks. “Even the apparently routine events like a mosquito quietly landing on our skin or a bud unfolding into a flower is as miraculous to me as a territorial fight of two bold male tigers or the magnificent courtship display of a jumping Lesser Florican.”
One of his most cherished experiences came during a visit to Nagzira Navegaon National Park in Maharashtra. Accompanied by his friend Pinal Patel, Shaurya was fortunate to witness a rare hunt by a pack of Asiatic wild dogs, known as dholes.
“Wild dogs are known to hunt in packs, but it is reported that they would abandon their hunt if they see humans in close proximity. By God’s grace, however, we could witness and photograph the entire event—from when the prey, a Sambhar deer, was intact till the point it was reduced to bare bones,” he recalls.
This rare and raw portrayal of nature’s cycle earned him the Sanctuary Asia Wildlife Photography Award in 2016.
CONNECTING PEOPLE TO NATURE
For Shaurya, photography is a medium to raise awareness about environmental conservation. “The precursor of care is connection. One must feel a connection with what one is required to love and care about,” he explains. “If my storytelling can make people connect to nature, the rest of the things mostly fall in place sooner or later. I firmly believe in inherent human goodness and that most people can be motivated and inspired to do good.” His work seeks to bridge the gap between people and the natural world, fostering a sense of responsibility and care.
When asked about his favorite equipment, Shaurya mentions that he primarily uses Sony cameras and lenses, often with the support of fellow photographers.
“I must mention Shri Gautam Pandey, an ace wildlife filmmaker and son of the renowned Shri Mike Pandey, who has always been supportive with photography gear,” he adds gratefully.
LOOKING AHEAD
Despite his modesty, Shaurya’s work has garnered appreciation beyond wildlife circles. One of his recent projects involved documenting the transition of India’s Parliament from its old structure to the new one. His photographs were compiled into a coffee table book titled ‘The Temple of Democracy’, and have been featured in various publications and on official websites.
“For our work, the Honorable Finance Minister awarded me,” he notes with pride.
Although exhibitions are not a primary goal, Shaurya is open to the idea. “Allow me to candidly say that apart from a few good photographs that came in my share by Mother Nature’s grace and strokes of serendipity, I do not claim to have done any extraordinary work. However, I feel very enthused to put up my modest collage of visual melodies for observation and feedback.”
He is also working on developing a website, www.shauryashashwat.in, to showcase his photography, which he hopes will soon be fully operational.
A JOURNEY OF BALANCE AND HARMONY
Shaurya Shashwat Shukla’s story is one of balance—between the structured responsibilities of an IRS officer and the boundless freedom of nature photography. His ability to excel in both realms speaks volumes about his dedication and passion. As he continues to explore new landscapes through his camera, he remains committed to his mission of fostering a deeper connection between people and the natural world.
