Legendary Photojournalist Raghu Rai Dies After Cancer Battle
“Legendary Indian Photographer Raghu Rai Passes Away at 83 After Battle with Cancer”: Renowned Indian photojournalist Raghu Rai, whose evocative images captured some of the most defining moments in modern history, has passed away at the age of 83. Rai, who had been battling cancer and age-related health issues, died on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at a private hospital in Delhi. His son, Nitin Rai, shared that his father had fought a courageous battle with prostate cancer, which later spread to his stomach and eventually his brain. Despite his health struggles, Raghu Rai remained an iconic figure in the world of photography, creating work that transcended the lens.
Raghu Rai’s career, which began in 1965, spanned more than five decades and earned him international acclaim. From his early days as a chief photographer at The Statesman to becoming a part of the prestigious Magnum Photos agency in 1971, his journey was marked by a relentless pursuit of capturing India’s most pivotal moments. His images chronicled everything from the fall of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to the devastating aftermath of the Bhopal gas tragedy. He was also known for photographing prominent figures such as Mother Teresa, Satyajit Ray, and the Dalai Lama, leaving a rich photographic legacy that continues to influence generations of photographers.
Rai’s family announced that his last rites will be conducted at 4 p.m. today, April 26, 2026, at the Lodhi Road crematorium in Delhi. Raghu Rai is survived by his wife, Gurmeet, his son Nitin, and three daughters—Lagan, Avni, and Purvai. His contributions to the art of storytelling through photography are immeasurable, and his work will forever be etched in the history of Indian photojournalism.
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