The news of Art Director Nitin Chandrakant Desai mysterious demise has stunned the film fraternity. For the artistic world it is a profound loss. Nitin was found dead at the age of 57 in his N D Studio in Karjat on August 2 morning. The news has sent shockwaves through the film industry and art community, leaving many grieving for the loss of a visionary talent.
In 1993, Desai stepped into the world of feature films, making his debut with Adhikari Brothers’ “Bhookamp.” However, it was his exceptional work on Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s period film “1942: A Love Story” in 1994 that truly brought him into the limelight, leaving an unforgettable mark in the industry.
Nitin Chandrakant Desai a Four-time National Award Winner
Nitin Chandrakant Desai, a four-time National Award winner for art direction, has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema, with his masterful work on films like “Lagaan,” “Jodhaa Akbar,” “Munnabhai M.B.B.S.,” and “Lage Raho Munna Bhai.” He also gained international recognition for his spectacular sets in movies like “Slumdog Millionaire” and “Kaun Banega Crorepati.”
The circumstances surrounding his tragic death are currently under investigation by the authorities, with speculation of a possible suicide. However, official confirmation is pending as the police delve into the case to uncover more details about the incident.
Maharashtra MLA Mahesh Baldi has expressed his condolences and has hinted at a possible motive behind the unfortunate incident. “He was under financial stress, and this could be the only reason for suicide,” ANI quoted him as saying.
The news of Nitin Chandrakant Desai‘s passing has left Bollywood in mourning, with heartfelt tributes pouring in from fellow industry members. Filmmaker Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri, emotionally devastated by the loss of his dear friend, paid tribute, saying, “I am heartbroken and sad beyond control to learn about my dearest friend Nitin Desai’s death. A legendary Production designer, a visionary who made ND Studio… Nitin not only loved Pallavi and I, he always guided me even in films we didn’t do together. Why Nitin, why?”
Film critic Taran Adarsh also expressed his condolences on Twitter, saying, “Heartbreaking…#NationalAward winning production designer #NitinDesai is no more… Heartfelt condolences to the family.”
Nitin Desai’s death has left a void in the world of art and cinema that will be challenging to fill. His creative brilliance, dedication, and exceptional talent will forever be remembered and cherished by his fans, colleagues, and admirers.
As the investigation continues, the film industry and art enthusiasts eagerly await official updates on the cause of his tragic demise. The loss of Nitin Desai serves as a stark reminder of the immense pressure and challenges that artists face in their pursuit of excellence, calling for greater awareness and support for mental health issues in the artistic community.
Nitin Chandrakant Desai was born in Mulund, Bombay, Maharashtra on 9 August 1965. He attended school at Wamanrao Muranjan High School, Mulund in a Marathi Medium. He studied photography at the J.J. School of Art and L.S.Raheja school of arts, in Mumbai, before joining the films.
In May 1987, Nitin Chandrakant Desai began his journey in the realm of art direction at Mumbai’s Film City Studios. Leaving behind the familiar 2-D world of still photography, he embraced the captivating realm of 3-D art direction. He embarked on his career as a fourth assistant to the esteemed art director, Nitish Roy, during the production of the period TV serial “Tamas” (1987), under the directorship of Govind Nihalani.
Following this, Desai lent his creative talents to various TV series, including “Kabir,” where he dedicated five-and-a-half years of his expertise. Later, he contributed to the TV series “Chanakya,” taking the reins as an independent art director from the 26th episode onwards, after working on the first 25 episodes.