Sat Sep 13 11:53:02 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten version formatted as a news article:

**Summary:**

A retired superintendent from the Kerala State Electricity Board, Saji Ennakkad, is using his life savings to build a memorial to Joseph Nicéphore Niépce, the French inventor and pioneer of photography. Located in Vathikulam, near Mavelikara, Kerala, the memorial is being built under the aegis of the Joseph Nicéphore Niépce Foundation and aims to recreate part of Niépce’s house, including the window from which he took the world’s earliest surviving photograph. The project aims to honour Niépce, correct historical misconceptions, and educate the global community about his contributions. The memorial will also include a bronze statue, a photography museum, art gallery, workshops, and an open-air stage.

**News Article:**

**Kerala Man Uses Life Savings to Build Memorial to Photography Pioneer Niépce**

**ALAPPUZHAA, September 13, 2025** – While many embrace retirement as a time for relaxation, Saji Ennakkad, a retired senior superintendent from the Kerala State Electricity Board, is embarking on a passion project: building a memorial dedicated to Joseph Nicéphore Niépce, the French inventor recognized as the pioneer of photography. The memorial, located in Vathikulam near Mavelikara in Kerala, will honor Niépce’s groundbreaking contributions to the field.

The project, spearheaded by the Joseph Nicéphore Niépce Foundation, began in June 2025, with a foundation stone laid by former Chief Secretary K. Jayakumar. Mr. Ennakkad is personally funding the estimated ₹45-50 lakh project.

The memorial aims to recreate a portion of Niépce’s house in Saint-Loup-de-Varennes, France, including the iconic window from which he captured “View from the Window at Le Gras (Point de vue du Gras),” the world’s oldest surviving photograph.

“The world had almost forgotten the man who made it possible. The monument ensures that Niépce will forever be remembered,” said Mr. Saji, who is not only funding this, but a painter and photojournalist.

The memorial isn’t just a recreation; it’s envisioned as a modern cultural complex. Plans include a 34-kilogram bronze statue of Niépce, a photography museum, an art gallery, workshop spaces for photography and painting enthusiasts, and an open-air stage for cultural events. The Joseph Nicéphore Niépce Foundation says it aims to correct historical misconceptions about Niépce and inspire future generations. Mr. Saji is also the author of a book about the history of photography, titled Nischalam Nishabdham.

The memorial is expected to be completed in early 2026, promising to be a significant landmark celebrating the legacy of one of photography’s most important figures.

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