By Chun-Liang Chiu and Yuan-Chen Hu
Amar Kumar, a dedicated volunteer, uses his photography skills to document Tzu Chi's work in India. His journey is one of personal growth, community impact, and a deep commitment to positive change.
A Nervous Task
In February 2025, the Tzu Chi team in India geared up to document a large Dharma assembly organized by the World Buddhist Merit Association. But security restrictions at the Mahabodhi Temple, the venue for the event, presented a challenge: No cell phones or electronic devices were allowed inside. The team could only rely on their Nikon D300 camera.
Faced with this unexpected situation, Tzu Chi volunteer, Yuan-Chen Hu practiced indoor and outdoor shots. Meanwhile, Amar Kumar, a local documentary team member, was assigned to photograph various scenes. Although the pressure was on, the team assured Amar of their full support.
Adapting to Unexpected Situations
Amar's commitment extends beyond major events. Just days before the Dharma assembly, Tzu Chi volunteer Alice Lee found herself needing additional photos for her work diary. Upon learning this, Boon Tiong Tan contacted Amar. Even on his day off, Amar promptly assisted, carefully searching for the required photos and uploading them to Lee's laptop.
Hu's confidence in Amar's ability to handle the Dharma assembly grew. However, their confidence was shaken when they learnt that Amar wasn't feeling well.
On the morning of February 19, Boon Tiong Tan informed the team that Amar wasn't feeling well and might not make it. This news dampened their spirits, and they quickly reviewed their limited resources, realizing the D300 camera lacked video capabilities.
Tan called Amar again, hoping he would be feeling better by the 10 AM interview. With a "take it as it comes" mindset, the team set out, though anxious as Amar wasn't at his father's stall as planned. Nonetheless, they pushed forward, hoping for a positive outcome.
A Familiar Face
The team arrived at the Dharma assembly, relieved to see Amar's familiar face, albeit tired, smiling back at them.
"You made it! How's your stomach?" Hu asked.
"I arrived around 7:30; I should be fine," Amar replied, determined to push through.
True to his commitment, Amar had already begun recording the pre-event footage by 7:30 AM. Hu and Amar continued shooting on the sidelines while the other volunteers participated in the assembly and recited the "Sutra of Infinite Meanings." Seeing Amar move around capturing shots, they wished him well.
Witnessing Goodness Through the Lens
After the recitation, volunteer Chun-Liang Chiu quickly arranged interviews with the monks, initially planning to interview two directly involved monks. With the recommendation of Venerable Ming Yu from the World Buddhist Association, they interviewed more representatives. Amar's camera tripod and microphone were frequently set up and adjusted, with Amar smiling and nodding reassuringly.
By noon, the team returned to the venue, briefly losing sight of Amar. He soon reappeared, sitting at the main table, preparing to organize the footage. Chiu promptly sent him the interviewees' titles and names for editing.
Tan praised Amar for his selfless heart, dedication, and enthusiasm for photography and videography. He shared with Amar that volunteers worldwide share the mission of documenting Tzu Chi's work. Like fireflies in the night sky, their individual lights may be faint, but together they shine brightly to reveal the power of goodness.
A Newfound Perspective
In recent years, Amar has recorded Tzu Chi's humanitarian efforts in his hometown, seeing familiar scenes from new perspectives. While documenting the "One Village One Community" initiative, he noticed a thought-provoking phenomenon: villagers had their homes and food but still felt unsatisfied, relying on external aid. Amar realized true change requires education and guidance to foster self-reliance, appreciation, and inner fulfillment. This responsibility quietly transformed into a vow, driving him to help his people see a brighter future.
Amar's journey shows the transformative power of service, both for those who receive aid and for those who dedicate themselves to giving. As he continues to document the efforts of Tzu Chi, he is not only capturing images but also contributing to a brighter future for his community.
