India Images : Delhi that was… by Raghu Rai in Extended Edition

‘Extended Edition’ gave a chance to art collectors to not just glimpse but also buy some of the most important works by Raghu Rai. An entire solo exhibition in an extended edition of 51 images each was a big first in the evolving field of Indian photography. Simply put, it allowed the collection process to be more democratic while also enriching collectors with the best images, which they could not have purchased otherwise.

With an enriching career spanning more than four decades, Rai’s images were especially handpicked to suit the artistic palate of the Indian Art Connoisseur.

With as many as 40 images, including Rai’s trademark black & white, and coloured ones, the images on display at the exhibition spanned various subjects. So, from breathtaking stills capturing the grain of both traditional and contemporary India, there were city-specific stills on display too; images through which Rai captured the rich tapestry, the very DNA, which defines Delhi.

With more than 20 books to Rai’s credit, the exhibition displayed his books in an effort to synergize the Art and the Artist. While the books were present at the exhibition, the spotlight was, of course, on his still imagery. So, from an early morning Yamuna view; to Jantar Mantar in the afternoon and a silent Qutab Minar to the majestic stance of Humanyun’s tomb, handpicked never-seen-before images of Rai at the exhibition offered a visual treat for the ubiquitous art collector.