“I share with you the ghazal that resonates through the whispers of my soul,” expressed the renowned poet Dushyant Kumar.

Raghu Rai exemplifies the essence of photography, making it an integral part of his existence—his thoughts, dreams, and daily life. It serves as his prayer, inspiration, and guiding principle.

Those familiar with him will attest to his heartfelt approach to life.

The Raghu Rai I know embodies tranquility, clarity, and a deep connection to the world around him. His insatiable curiosity and vision are as profound as the ocean and as expansive as the universe. Despite his tall stature and commanding presence, he possesses the unique ability to blend into his surroundings, capturing candid moments before anyone realizes a camera is present.

His skill in seamlessly transitioning from one location to another, mingling with crowds while photographing, is legendary.

Rai's work goes beyond mere documentation; his photographs leave an enduring mark on history—encompassing social, political, cultural, and human interest narratives.

He connects with viewers through a straightforward visual language that meets their aesthetic and emotional needs, fostering an immediate and direct dialogue.

At first glance, his photographs may appear simple, but it is his mastery of the craft that renders them extraordinary. Within this simplicity lies a wealth of deeper meanings, revealing the complexities of human thought and behavior. He transforms intricate life situations into comprehensible narratives, initiating a silent conversation with his audience and offering fresh insights into the world around us.

Raghu Rai's dedication to exploring the richness of human existence is unparalleled. His engagement with his art is spontaneous, constant, and lifelong, keeping him attuned to the pulse of the present.

He breathes life into the subjects of his photographs without them or the viewer realizing it. The entire composition harmonizes, depicting a scene that unfolds in an authentic and genuine manner. The human figures, their attire, gestures, and expressions align perfectly with their environment—be it a building, plant, animal, or the sky. Each element is intricately woven together, and removing even a small part would disrupt the perfection achieved by his artistry.

If photography were not his calling, Raghu Rai would have pursued music. His images capture the rhythm of life in such a poetic way that one can almost hear a symphony and envision a cosmic dance. Humans, animals, and nature all seem to sway in harmony with an unseen melody.

His bond with nature fuels his creative spirit. At his farmhouse, designed by his architect and conservationist wife Meeta, he shared that he has soil from various regions of India. “Our farm holds soil from every corner of the country,” he remarked.

He has lovingly nurtured plants from across India, spending his weekends tending to them with care. I have witnessed him cradling these plants like precious children, even during flights.

His love for India—its people, landscapes, cultures, languages, and natural beauty—is profound, akin to the passion one feels for a beloved.

Raghu Rai's sense of wonder is almost childlike; he is always eager to discover and explore anything that piques his curiosity. His eyes sparkle with a desire to uncover the unknown, remaining open to new experiences.

He embodies a unique blend of restlessness and relaxation, coupled with remarkable patience. I observed this during the winter of 1996 when he was preparing for a retrospective at the NGMA while assisting me with a catalogue for my UK exhibition. Amidst a tray of negatives, his young daughter, Purvai, wandered in and accidentally disrupted his work. Instead of reacting with frustration, he remained calm, gently guiding her away while expressing affection.

There are countless stories that illustrate his exceptional qualities. He is a true artist, deeply immersed in his work and life, and sharing time with him is always enriching. The experience of being in the presence of a master lingers long after and elevates the spirit.

We at the Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi feel privileged that Raghu Rai has brought a remarkable collection of images for the city's residents. We are confident that art enthusiasts and discerning viewers will appreciate the slideshow and interactive session with him.

(Diwan Manna, a photographer based in Chandigarh, shared these reflections on Raghu Rai in March 2011)