Delhi Lt Governor T.S. Sandhu expressed his condolences on the demise of acclaimed photographer Raghu Rai, calling him a legend in the world of photography. Rai, known for blending technical excellence with deep human empathy, captured the essence of India with remarkable sensitivity. Sandhu extended sympathies to Rai’s wife, family, and the photography community, praising Rai’s iconic images for their storytelling brilliance.
Rai, aged 83, passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer. A pioneer in photojournalism, Rai’s work spanned over six decades, encompassing a wide spectrum of subjects ranging from political figures like Indira Gandhi to ordinary citizens. His photography reflected a keen awareness of societal issues, focusing not just on bodies but on capturing the essence of individuals.
The Padma Shri awardee’s photographs are currently on display at an exhibition titled ‘Raghu Rai – A Thousand Lives Photographs from 1965-2005’ at KNMA until April 30. Rai, influenced by Henri Cartier-Bresson, emphasized the importance of highlighting stories from rural India and small towns to bring attention to the common man’s experiences. He viewed himself not as a professional photographer but as an explorer delving into the intricacies of daily life and streets.
