Rajanish Kakade, a seasoned Associated Press photographer who spent nearly two decades capturing India's political events and daily life in Mumbai, has passed away at age 55. The third-generation photojournalist died Monday at his Mumbai home following an illness, leaving behind a legacy of powerful images that documented everything from major political events to ordinary street scenes.
NEW DELHI — A veteran Associated Press photographer who spent nearly two decades documenting India’s political landscape and the vibrant street life of Mumbai has passed away at age 55.
Rajanish Kakade passed away Monday at his Mumbai residence after battling an illness, according to his family members.
Kakade began his career with the Associated Press in 2008, working from Mumbai where he helped create a comprehensive visual documentation of India’s commercial hub. Prior to his AP tenure, he gained experience working for the Sakal Group media company and the Hindustan Times publication.
The Mumbai Press Club issued a tribute, stating: “Through his work, he captured defining moments with integrity and sensitivity. Through his mentorship, he shaped countless careers, always encouraging young photographers to pursue the truth with courage and compassion.”
Photography ran in Kakade’s family, as he represented the third generation of photojournalists, continuing a tradition established by both his grandfather and father.
During his time with the Associated Press, Kakade’s assignments spanned the breadth of Indian society — covering significant political developments, electoral campaigns, and sporting events, as well as tragic incidents like the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks and the COVID-19 health crisis. His photography of Mumbai’s daily life revealed the pulse of a city in constant transformation, showing both its enormous scope and personal moments.
Colleagues at the AP remembered Kakade as a gentle professional who showed unwavering dedication to his photography work.
Manish Swarup, who serves as the AP’s chief photographer for South Asia, remarked that Kakade “possessed that rare, quiet grace of a true observer.”
“He didn’t just take pictures; he earned the trust of those in his frame. That is why his photographs always stand out — they carry an intimacy and a truth that only a person of his character could capture,” Swarup explained.
Swarup, who collaborated closely with Kakade over many years, described him as “more than a talented eye for The Associated Press,” calling him “a steadfast friend and a cherished colleague.”
“We haven’t just lost a great photojournalist; we have lost a beautiful soul, whose kindness was as luminous as his work,” he added.
Yirmiyan Arthur, who manages photography and visual storytelling for the AP across the Asia Pacific area, noted that Kakade “helped us understand everyday Mumbai, a city of contradictions, with utter honesty,” through his documentation of economic disparities, the seasonal monsoon experiences, and the bustling commuter rail system.
“He was a son of Mumbai and made sure he told its story the right way,” Arthur stated.
Kakade leaves behind surviving family members.