Pirelli Calendar 2027 Showcases India Through Dual Perspectives

In a groundbreaking move for the Pirelli Calendar, the 2027 edition features a unique collaboration between two photographers, Norwegian Sølve Sundsbø and Indian icon Raghu Rai, who have come together to explore the rich tapestry of India. This marks the first time in the calendar's history that it has been co-created by two distinct artistic voices, each bringing their own perspective to the project. The calendar aims to highlight India's beauty, diversity, and complexity, with Sundsbø's outsider viewpoint complementing Rai's insider knowledge. This dual approach is designed to foster a dialogue between the two photographers rather than a competition, allowing for a more nuanced representation of the country.

The project has taken on a deeper significance following the passing of Raghu Rai, whose daughter, Avani Rai, has stepped in to carry forward her father's vision. Avani, an accomplished photographer in her own right, has transformed the project into a personal tribute, blending her father's legacy with her own artistic sensibilities. Sundsbø, known for his striking and stylized photography, acknowledges the weight of responsibility that comes with collaborating on such a significant project. He emphasizes the importance of working alongside a figure he reveres, stating, “When they said Mr. Raghu Rai would be part of it, it was like, for me, he is like a photography god.” His focus remains on capturing the essence of the people through portraiture, while he entrusts Avani with the task of delving deeper into the soul of India.