Iconic Photographer Raghu Rai Dies at 83, Delhi L-G Sandhu Mourns

"The world of photography has lost a legend with the passing of Shri Raghu Rai Ji," said Sandhu in a message on X.

"A maestro behind the lens, his work seamlessly blended technical brilliance with profound human empathy, capturing the soul of India with rare depth and sensitivity. His iconic images will continue to inspire and stand as a masterclass in storytelling through photography," said Sandhu.

"My heartfelt condolences to his wife, Smt. Gurmeet Sangha Rai, his family, and the entire photography fraternity. Om Shanti," he said.

Rai, 83, died on Sunday after battling cancer for over two years. Known as a pioneer of photojournalism, Rai was cremated at the Lodhi Road cremation ground in the evening.

Over the last 60 years, he framed the diverse shades of life. From leaders like late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to maestros of classical music, and more importantly -- the common man on the street.

Forever abreast with contemporary political and social realities, photographer Raghu Rai was constantly on the move -- not just to capture bodies but their souls too.

The Padma Shri recipient's frames are currently at display at an exhibition (till April 30) at KNMA 'Raghu Rai - A Thousand Lives Photographs from 1965-2005'.

At the exhibition, Rai told reporters: "When I was a photojournalist, I would always say, why are we in Delhi and serving the big shots by taking their pictures? It is important to go to rural India and small towns and cover their stories. Maybe that will force the politicians to take note of them. Remember, the common man is the only thread of continuity. Politicians and industrialists come and go but the man on the street never vanishes. Precisely why my focus has always been on street photography."

Rai, protege of Henri Cartier-Bresson, who nominated him to join Magnum Photos in 1977 said, "I am not a professional photographer, but an explorer who delves into daily lives and streets."

- IANS