Renowned photographer, veteran journalist and businessman Shan Pillay has died.

Pillay died on Tuesday morning in Pietermaritzburg.

Pillay was known both locally and internationally for his photography skills which he used to capture multiple politicians, local and international actors, and community members.

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Pillay’s love for writing and politics took him to the All In Africa Conference in 1961, where former late President Nelson Mandela delivered that last speech at the Arya Samaj Hall (now the Manaye Hall).

Pillay sat in the front row of the audience, where he listened to Mandela’s speech.

Pillay had the honour of meeting Mandela and narrating his experience to Mandela when he visited Pietermaritzburg in 1995 at the city hall.

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Pillay was also known for his promotion of cultural values in the local community. By Tuesday afternoon, multiple messages were posted in honour of Pillay.

*See tomorrow’s Witness for full tribute