Raghu Rai: Capturing the Soul of India

Renowned photographer Raghu Rai, whose lens captured India's diverse identity for over six decades, has passed away at the age of 83. His work, deeply admired and celebrated, evoked the essence of the nation through its people, struggles, and defining moments.

Expressing grief over Rai's demise, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi remarked that Rai's photographs didn't just capture moments but preserved the nation's memory, illustrating its soul. Gandhi expressed his heartfelt condolences to Rai's family, colleagues, and the myriad admirers his art touched across generations.

Born in December 1942 in Jhang, Punjab (now Pakistan), Rai initially qualified as a civil engineer before pursuing photography at the age of 23. He became The Statesman's chief photographer in 1966, marking the beginning of an illustrious career in capturing the heart of India.

(With inputs from agencies.)