New Delhi, April 26: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her sorrow on Sunday over the passing of celebrated photographer Raghu Rai.
Banerjee took to social media platform X to share her grief, stating, “I am deeply saddened by the demise of the great photographer Raghu Rai. For over half a century, he captured the essence of India through his lens. His poignant images have left a unique legacy.” She noted Rai’s deep connection to Kolkata, mentioning that he authored a book about the city. “My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and admirers,” she added.
Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor T.S. Sandhu also expressed his condolences regarding Rai’s death. In a message on X, Sandhu remarked, “The photography world has lost a great personality with the passing of Shri Raghu Rai.”
He further stated, “A master behind the lens, his work was a remarkable blend of technical brilliance and deep human empathy, capturing the soul of India with rare depth and sensitivity. His iconic photographs will continue to inspire and stand as an exemplary testament to the art of storytelling through photography.”
Sandhu extended his heartfelt sympathies to Rai’s wife, family, and the entire photography community, concluding with “Om Shanti.”
Rai, 83, passed away on Sunday after battling cancer for over two years. Known as a pioneer in photojournalism, his last rites were conducted in the evening at Lodhi Road crematorium.
Over the past 60 years, he captured various facets of life, from leaders like former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to classical music maestros, and most importantly, the common man.
Always attuned to contemporary political and social realities, photographer Raghu Rai was on a continuous journey—not just to capture bodies, but their souls as well.
Awarded the Padma Shri, Rai’s photographs are currently featured in the exhibition “Raghu Rai – A Thousand Lives: Photographs 1965-2005” at KNMA, running until April 30.
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