The photography world mourns the loss of Raghu Rai, a legendary figure and Padma Shri awardee, who passed away on Sunday morning. Fellow photographer Pablo Bartholomew, who admired Rai's work and considered him a mentor, expressed his deep sense of personal loss. Their bond was strengthened by their shared birthday on December 18, which they celebrated together over the years. Bartholomew recalls their collaborations during pivotal events like the Bhopal Gas Tragedy and the Babri Masjid demolition, emphasizing Rai's influence on generations of photographers. He praised Rai's early works, particularly his ability to capture everyday moments in a compelling manner, and highlighted the significance of Rai's 18 published books, which showcased his creative vision beyond journalism. Bartholomew reminisced about their last conversation, where Rai, despite his illness, expressed a desire to connect, saying, 'I’m not in a good shape right now...batlaunga!' This personal connection and shared experiences underline the profound impact Rai had on the field of photography.