India has lost one of its greatest visual storytellers. Celebrated photojournalist Raghu Rai died on Sunday at the age of 83 after battling cancer and age-related health issues. He had been admitted to a private hospital before his passing. His death marks the end of an era in Indian photography, with tributes already pouring in from across the country.
Rai’s son, photographer Nitin Rai, shared details about his father’s long health struggle. Speaking to PTI, he said, “Dad was diagnosed with prostate cancer two years ago, but he was cured. Then it spread to the stomach, that too was cured. Recently, the cancer spread to his brain and then there were age-related issues too.”
The family also informed that Raghu Rai’s last rites will take place at Lodhi Cremation Ground in New Delhi at 4 pm on Sunday. He is survived by his wife Gurmeet, son Nitin and daughters Lagan, Avani and Purvai.
Raghu Rai Death Leaves Indian Photography World in Mourning
Raghu Rai was widely regarded as one of India’s finest photographers. Through his lens, he documented the country in all its contrasts — joy, pain, beauty, chaos and resilience. His images did not just capture moments. They told stories that shaped public memory.
Born in 1942 in Jhang (now in Pakistan), Rai did not begin as a photographer. He first trained as a civil engineer before switching careers in 1965 at the age of 23. His elder brother, noted photographer S Paul, encouraged him to follow the creative path.
Soon after, Rai’s work began gaining recognition. One of his early photographs, showing a baby donkey, was published in The Times of London. That image opened international doors and launched a remarkable journey.
In 1966, he joined The Statesman in New Delhi as chief photographer. His powerful coverage of the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War earned him national respect. In 1972, he received the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honours.
Raghu Rai Career Defined Modern India Through Images
A turning point came in 1977 when legendary French photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson nominated Rai to join Magnum Photos. He became the first Indian photographer to be part of the world-famous agency, taking Indian photojournalism to a global stage.
From 1982 to 1992, Rai served as Director of Photography at India Today. During that time, he created several iconic photo essays. His haunting images from the 1984 Bhopal Gas Tragedy remain among the most powerful records of the disaster.
Rai was also known for deeply personal portraits of major figures. He photographed Mother Teresa for nearly three decades and captured candid moments of Indira Gandhi, the Dalai Lama, filmmaker Satyajit Ray, and many classical musicians.
Beyond journalism, he authored more than 50 books, including Raghu Rai’s India, Delhi and The Sikhs. In 2012, he founded the Raghu Rai Center for Photography in New Delhi to mentor young talent.