Legendary Photographer Raghu Rai Laid to Rest in Delhi

A camera and a yellow box of Kodak film accompanied photographer Raghu Rai on his final journey, the perfect symbols of a life spent seeing the world through art.

The legendary photojournalist was cremated in New Delhi on Sunday, surrounded by family, fellow photographers, artists, and countless admirers whose lives he touched. His wife Gurmeet and four children stood alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tribute describing Rai as someone who "captured India's vibrancy through his lens."

Rai passed away at age 83 after spending over six decades documenting India's people, struggles, joys, and defining moments. In 1977, he became the country's first photographer invited to join the prestigious Magnum Photos, nominated by legendary French photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson.

Among those paying respects were India Today founder Aroon Purie, journalist Shekhar Gupta, artists Bharti Kher and Subodh Gupta, and filmmaker Nandita Das. Dozens of photojournalists and photographers gathered to honor the man who had mentored so many.

Photographer Sondeep Shankar remembered meeting Rai in 1972 as a college student. Rai judged his photography competition and awarded him first prize, telling him, "You're showing life."

That praise shaped Shankar's entire career. But Rai was also unflinchingly honest, never afraid to tell someone when their work needed improvement.

Why This Inspires

Rai's genius came from complete immersion in his subjects. Photographer Parthiv Shah noted how Rai would follow Indira Gandhi for years, learning to anticipate her movements and capture decisive moments before they happened.

His generosity extended beyond the camera. Photojournalist Prashant Panjiar recalled being handpicked by Rai to join India Today in 1986 and receiving invaluable advice: "Fight for your space. Don't just give it away."

Aditya Arya, director of Museo Camera, praised Rai's rare combination of technical mastery and teaching ability. "There are many photographers, but very few have the ability to teach and mentor," he said.

Rai's images celebrated moments with extraordinary light and composition, whether documenting journalistic events, travel, or everyday Indian life. His work brought people closer to understanding their own country.

A public memorial will be held May 2 at the Chinmaya Mission Centre in New Delhi, giving more admirers a chance to honor a man who taught generations to truly see.