Steve McCurry's Rare Bollywood Photos: Amitabh, Sridevi, Dev Anand
- Steve McCurry photographed Bollywood stars including Amitabh Bachchan, Sridevi, Anil Kapoor, and Dev Anand.
- The rare images are part of a new exhibition and collection by The Hollywood Reporter India.
- McCurry, known for the 'Afghan Girl' photo, captured candid moments of these icons.
A new collection of photographs offers a rare, intimate look at Bollywood's golden era through the lens of one of the world's most celebrated photographers. Steve McCurry, best known for his iconic 'Afghan Girl' portrait for National Geographic, turned his camera on Indian cinema's biggest stars.
According to The Hollywood Reporter India, the images feature Amitabh Bachchan, Sridevi, Anil Kapoor, and Dev Anand. The photographs, previously unseen by the public, capture these legends in candid and staged moments from the 1990s.
A Master's Eye on Indian Cinema
McCurry, an American photojournalist, has spent decades documenting human conflict, culture, and beauty across the globe. His work in India is extensive, but his Bollywood portraits represent a lesser-known chapter of his career.
The images show Amitabh Bachchan in a reflective pose, his intense gaze familiar to millions. Sridevi appears in a moment of quiet grace, a stark contrast to her energetic on-screen persona. Dev Anand is caught mid-conversation, his trademark charm evident even in stillness. Anil Kapoor, known for his energetic roles, is shown in a relaxed, contemplative state.
Behind the Lens
McCurry's approach to these Bollywood icons was the same as his approach to any subject: find the human story. He did not rely on elaborate sets or dramatic lighting. Instead, he focused on the person behind the star.
The result is a series of photographs that feel more like private moments than publicity stills. They offer a glimpse of the individuals who defined an era of Indian cinema, stripped of the usual glamour and pretense.
A New Home for Rare Images
The Hollywood Reporter India has curated the collection for a special exhibition. The exact dates and venue for the public display have not been announced yet. The publication plans to release a limited-edition print set alongside the exhibition.
For fans of both photography and Indian cinema, this collection bridges two worlds. It places Bollywood's biggest stars within the broader context of global photojournalism, showing that their impact transcends language and borders.
McCurry's work reminds viewers that even the most famous faces have moments of vulnerability and stillness. The images are expected to draw significant interest from collectors and cinephiles alike.
The exhibition is slated to open later this year. Watch for details on ticketing and a possible digital showcase of the prints.