Salted Face showcases fishermen in different ages and from different places.

Victory In the middle of the busy market, man shows victory, celebrating his hard work
Salted faces tell the story of Ponnani’s fishing industry, where every person, from the fisherman to the seafood handlers, plays a vital role in keeping the business alive. Furthermore, each individual’s dedication contributes to the resilience of the industry. In addition, the interconnectedness of their efforts ensures the seamless flow of seafood from sea to market. Moreover, each individual contributes in their own way, ensuring the continued success and sustainability of this time-honored tradition. As their labors guarantee that the local markets are always supplied with fresh fish. And their lives are intertwined with the sea.
Beyond their similarity, salted faces and moreover, the portraits of fishermen in Ponnani show the spirit of daily life, connected deeply to the rhythms of the sea. There, for the faces aged by the sun and wind speak of perseverance and hard work. Moreover, many have deep lines etched from years of battling the heat or braving the winds on the open ocean. Their eyes often carry a quiet determination, revealing both the challenges and the pride they take in their labour.

Wisdom Older workers stand with quiet dignity, their face shows years of hard work that have shaped the market’s history.

Unyielding A portrait of perseverance—etched in lines, shaded by experience.

Veteran With every wrinkle and scar, he carries the wisdom of years spent braving the ocean’s unpredictability.
The fishing industry in Ponnani is built on the foundation of Kerala’s generational fishing tradition, where, in addition, the older generation holds a special place among the busy docks and markets. These experienced workers, who have spent their entire lives in the industry. They pass down their knowledge to the younger generation, ensuring that the spirit of the trade lives on. Despite modern advancements, younger workers continue to honor these traditions. While bringing their own innovations to the table, ensuring that the industry stays relevant in a modern world.

Cheerful fisherman’s warm smile radiates optimism, capturing the joy and resilience found in a life by the sea

Transaction A fish trader negotiates a deal at the bustling market, clutching a stack of cash from a successful sale.

Strength Young worker’s face radiates energy and enthusiasm as they do the day’s tasks with steady focus.
Amidst the bustling harbor, workers from other states also play an integral role in the fishing sector. Whether it’s sorting fish or handling the nets, these workers contribute significantly to the day-to-day operations. The Ponnani harbor workers represent the diversity of the fishing community, where every contribution count. The market traders and employees handle the catch efficiently, making sure that the markets are supplied, further reflecting the essence of Kerala’s fishing culture.

Resolve With a piercing gaze, a fisherman reflects on the challenges of the sea and life beyond the shore.

Pride Fisher man standing with pride.

Fusion Young men from diverse regions bring unique experiences yet work in harmony to keep the harbor’s trade alive.

The Look The faces of workers from various states reflect a rich blend of cultures and backgrounds, united in their hard work.

Happiness Happy faces of fish market.
The younger generation, inspired by their elders, continues to uphold the fishing heritage of Ponnani while incorporating modern techniques to navigate the evolving demands of the industry. Moreover Their dedication to the sea and the shared sense of community ensure the future success of Ponnani’s fishing industry. In the end, it is these salted faces the young and old alike that symbolize the perseverance of the fishing community. They carrying the legacy forward for years to come.

Grit A young fisherman stands firm, representing the strength and determination of his trade.

Young Young fisher boys are the lamp for their houses .

Fresh Energy The energy of today’s generation pulses through the market, with young workers eager to make their mark.

Bond Two young workers take a break, sharing a moment of laughter and companionship amidst their daily grind.

Legacy Young hands take on the responsibility of preserving their ancestors’ trade, blending tradition with modern effort.
Copyrights: All the photos and text in this post are the copyright of Arun Narayanan T Palakkad and Creative Hut Institute of Photography and Film. Their reproduction is forbidden without the explicit approval of the rightful owners.