G.R. Naidoo (1928–1982) was a South African photojournalist and editor best known for his association with Drum magazine during the 1950s and 60s. Born in Durban, Naidoo began his career in photography as a young man and soon joined Drum, where he played a pivotal role in documenting the social and political life of apartheid-era South Africa.
He notably covered key events such as the Treason Trial and captured striking images of theatrical productions like Mkhumbane, co-created by Alan Paton and Todd Matshikiza. In 1969, Naidoo made history as Drum’s first Black editor-in-chief. His work combined sharp journalistic instinct with a deep sensitivity to the cultural pulse of the time, making him a significant though often overlooked figure in South Africa’s visual and editorial history.
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G.R. Naidoo (1928–1982) was a South African photojournalist and editor best known for his association with Drum magazine during the 1950s and 60s. Born in Durban, Naidoo began his career in photography as a young man and soon joined Drum, where he played a pivotal role in documenting the social and political life of apartheid-era South Africa.
He notably covered key events such as the Treason Trial and captured striking images of theatrical productions like Mkhumbane, co-created by Alan Paton and Todd Matshikiza. In 1969, Naidoo made history as Drum’s first Black editor-in-chief. His work combined sharp journalistic instinct with a deep sensitivity to the cultural pulse of the time, making him a significant though often overlooked figure in South Africa’s visual and editorial history.
