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Photographer Captures Poignant Final Farewell Traditions Worldwide
2 Nov
Summary
- Goethe-Zentrum to host open-air exhibition on final farewell traditions
- Photographer Michael Gleich's photos focus on universal desire to honor the dead
- Filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan to inaugurate the exhibition
On November 2, 2025, the Goethe-Zentrum, a German culture and language institute in Thiruvananthapuram, announced that it will be organizing an open-air exhibition of the works of celebrated photographer Michael Gleich. The exhibition, titled "Silence Alive, the Global Culture of Farewell," will run from November 5 to 8 at the Museum park.
The exhibition will feature an assortment of Gleich's photographs that offer a glimpse into the final farewell traditions from around the world, including those of the Hindu, Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Chinese communities. Filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan will inaugurate the exhibition at 11 am on Wednesday, November 5.
According to Gleich, it is only the forms, symbols, and rituals that differ when it comes to honoring the dead, as the universal desire to bid a dignified farewell to loved ones remains the same. His photos are known for their high aesthetic value and are celebrated as an artistic contribution to this universal human experience. During his visit to Kerala, Gleich also documented the Hindu tradition of open-air cremation in Kannur.
Gleich will be present on the opening day of the show and will hold question and answer sessions on that day and the next, allowing visitors to engage with the artist and learn more about his work and the diverse funeral customs he has captured.
