Homegrown designer marks a milestone

Having accomplished 25 years in the field of design and costumes for Indian cinema, Chaitanya Rao has been juggling between the Tamil and Telugu film industries. He has styled Simran in Kannathil Muthamittal, Asin in Ghajini, Trisha in Ayutha Ezhuthu and Kodi, Ileana and Mahesh Babu in Pokiri (Telugu) and Nayanthara in films like Raja Rani, Imaikka Nodigal and Thani Oruvan among others.

“I started my career at the age of 19. It all started with Colour Plus where I worked for three years with them and at the end of it is when I got into costume designing. I assisted Priya Balasubramaniam when she finished Minsara Kanavu and worked with her for three years. I slowly started on my own from then on”, explains Chaitanya Rao. He has also showcased at the Lakme fashion week for 7 years

Minnale was the first film where Chaitanya worked with Madhavan. Initially, he faced some difficulty starting his career as a fashion designer. Now he feels there is a meeting point between fashion and film. Earlier, the costumes were different - for instance, silhouette and blouses were fitted.

“Costumes are mostly based on the script of the film and the characters. It has always been a teamwork when it comes to films and it is also great to be part of a team”, adds Chaitanya. “Trisha is my all-time favourite model from the days of Ayutha Ezhuthu”.

Chaitanya always had a creative streak. Inspired by his mother’s artistic work, he was sketching away by the time he was 12 years old. But, when he finished school, there was only one college - NIFT Delhi - that offered fashion courses.

Chaitanya says, “In these 25 years, each of my actresses has been special. Whether it’s been Simran, Asin, Shruthi Haasan or Nayanthara, every project gives us new challenges and new ideas”.

Upcoming projects of Chaitanya are slated with Jayam Ravi and Taapsee Pannu, directed by Ahmed of Endrendrum Punnagai fame.

“When it comes to costumes, I feel one colour can’t suit all individuals. Each person needs to know what suits their personality and skin tones and use it to their advantage”, explains Chaitanya.

Juggling films in his own line and styling for shoots keeps him hopping from one project to another and gives him very little time for anything else. But that’s the way he likes it.

The man of the hour will be showcasing his collection on Saturday in the city with the gorgeous actress Andrea, who will be gracing the ceremony.