Tragic Loss: Nitin Desai, Renowned Art Director of 'Lagaan' and 'Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam', Passes Away

 

Renowned art director Nitin Chandrakant Desai has tragically passed away at the age of 57. The police are currently conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his untimely demise. The exact cause of death has yet to be officially disclosed, although early indications point towards a possible suicide. We are awaiting official confirmation as authorities prepare to share more details.

His lifeless body was discovered at his N D Studio in Karjat on the morning of August 2nd. Nitin Desai, a four-time National Award winner for his exceptional art direction, was well-known for creating breathtaking sets, some of which graced films like Slumdog Millionaire and Kaun Banega Crorepati. Among his notable contributions to Bollywood were iconic movies such as Lagaan, Jodhaa Akbar, Munnabhai M.B.B.S., and Lage Raho Munna Bhai.

Maharashtra MLA Mahesh Baldi has acknowledged Desai's passing, mentioning, "He was under financial stress, and this could be the sole reason for his tragic decision." Raigad SP stated, "We have found the body of art director Nitin Desai hanging in his studio in Karjat. Police were alerted to this by a worker on the set. Upon reaching the studio, we discovered his body. Our investigation is ongoing as we explore all aspects of this case."

Nitin Desai was honored with National Awards for his remarkable work on films like Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Lagaan, and Devdas.

Bollywood, deeply affected by this loss, has begun to react to the news. Filmmaker Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri expressed his sorrow, saying, "I am heartbroken and overwhelmed with sadness to learn about the passing of my dear friend Nitin Desai. A legendary Production designer, a visionary who created ND Studio... Nitin not only cherished Pallavi and me, but he also provided guidance even on projects we didn't collaborate on. Why Nitin, why?"

The industry mourns the loss of this artistic genius, and our thoughts go out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.