One of the most celebrated photojournalists in India is Raghu Rai, who is internationally recognized for his powerful and evocative photography that documents India’s culture, politics, society, and people.
Step 1 — Early career:
• Raghu Rai began his career as a photographer in the 1960s and worked with prestigious newspapers and magazines in India.
• He became the chief photographer for *The Statesman* and later worked as the Picture Editor for *Sunday* magazine and *India Today*.
Step 2 — Association with Magnum Photos:
• In 1977, the legendary photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson nominated Raghu Rai to join Magnum Photos, the world’s most respected photographic cooperative.
• This gave him a global platform to showcase his work and cemented his place among the finest photographers in the world.
Step 3 — Major works and contributions:
• He extensively documented India’s landscapes, spiritual traditions, festivals, and everyday life.
• His coverage of significant events such as the Bhopal Gas Tragedy (1984) brought him worldwide acclaim, as his photographs captured the human tragedy in unforgettable detail.
• He has authored more than 30 books of photography covering diverse themes of India — from Mother Teresa and the Dalai Lama to monuments, villages, and environmental issues.
Step 4 — Awards and recognition:
• Raghu Rai was awarded the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, in 1972.
• He has received numerous international awards and his exhibitions have been hosted globally.
Step 5 — Legacy:
Raghu Rai is considered not just a photojournalist but also a visual historian of modern India. His work reflects deep empathy, cultural richness, and an eye for moments that define Indian identity.
Final Answer:
The most celebrated photojournalist in India among the options is Raghu Rai. This corresponds to Option (B).