Eka Lakhani – The Creative Force Behind Iconic Costumes in Indian Cinema
Early Life and Education:
Born in 1987, Eka Lakhani is a celebrated Indian fashion costume designer who has made a significant impact in the world of Indian cinema. Her journey began with a strong educational foundation in fashion design. She studied at SNDT Women’s University in Mumbai, where she developed her creative skills over three years. Seeking further expertise, she attended the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, where she refined her craft. During her time in the United States, Eka had the opportunity to assist established designers during New York Fashion Week, gaining invaluable insights into high fashion.
Emerging as a Costume Designer:
Eka’s career in costume design took a significant leap when she returned to India and interned on the sets of the bilingual film “Raavan” in 2010. Her talent and dedication quickly caught the attention of notable cinematographer Santosh Sivan, who offered her the role of costume designer for the Malayalam period drama “Urumi” in 2011. This project presented the challenge of creating authentic 15th-century Portuguese and Indian costumes for prominent actors like Vidya Balan, Genelia D’Souza, and Tabu, showcasing her ability to handle complex historical themes.
Collaboration with Director Mani Ratnam:
A pivotal moment in Eka’s career came in 2013 when she became the costume designer for Mani Ratnam’s film “Kadal.” This collaboration marked the start of a successful partnership that continues to thrive. Eka’s meticulous attention to detail and dedication to her craft made her the preferred choice for Mani Ratnam’s projects. Her work has been particularly lauded in films like “O Kadhal Kanmani” (2015) and “Kaatru Veliyidai” (2017), where her stunning costume designs for actresses Nithya Menen and Aditi Rao Hydari stood out.
For the period drama “Ponniyin Selvan: I” (2022), Eka undertook extensive research, traveling to Tanjore temples, meeting weavers, and immersing herself in the rich heritage to create authentic costumes that vividly brought the historical narrative to life.
Versatile Portfolio:
Eka Lakhani’s diverse portfolio includes biopics such as “Sanju” (2018) and the web series “Queen” (2019), where she meticulously recreated the fashion styles of the respective historical periods. In 2019, she founded “Team E,” a platform where seasoned designers collaborate under her guidance. Their first project was the Madras Talkies production “Vaanam Kottattum” (2020).
Eka’s versatility is further demonstrated by her appearances in films like “Kadal” (2013) and “One by Two” (2014), showcasing her talent as both a costume designer and an actress.
Awards and Recognition:
Eka Lakhani’s contributions to costume design have been widely recognized and celebrated. Her meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to her craft have earned her a well-deserved place in the industry.
With an estimated net worth of $1.2 million and a career spanning various languages and genres, Eka Lakhani continues to be a driving force in Indian cinema. Her exceptional costume designs bring characters to life, making her an indispensable part of the film industry.