Nitin Desai, esteemed art director, dies by suicide in Karjat
What's the story
Renowned art director Nitin Desai tragically died on Wednesday morning due to suicide, reportedly, at his studio in Karjat. He was 57.
According to reports, the brilliant art director, known for his exceptional talent, allegedly died due to hanging.
The Khalapur Police are currently investigating the matter and further details about his untimely demise are awaited.
May he rest in peace.
Details
Desai's associate found him hanging: Report
Per reports, on Wednesday morning, when Desai didn't respond to the house help, his associates grew concerned and decided to check on him.
After finding the studio's door locked, they broke it open and discovered him hanging. Without delay, they informed the police about the incident.
In his illustrious 20-year career, Desai has worked with filmmakers like Vidhu Vinod Chopra and Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
Twitter Post
Fans, art community mourned the untimely demise of Desai
Absolutely shocking and heartbreaking news! Art director and director #NitinChandrakantDesai passes away. Reason for the death is suicide as per the reports. He’s worked on popular films like Lagaan, Devdas, Jodha Akbar, HDDCS etc. May his soul rest in peace. Can’t believe 💔
— Aavishkar (@aavishhkar) August 2, 2023
Statement
Desai was under significant financial stress, stated Maharashtra MLA Baldi
Maharashtra MLA Mahesh Baldi confirmed the demise of the Lagaan art director to ANI.
According to Baldi, Desai was under "significant financial stress," and this could be an apparent reason for the suicide, he said.
Raigad SP told ANI, "When police reached the studio, we saw his body hanging. We are investigating the case further for ascertaining all the aspects in this case."
Tributes
Celebrities, fans remembered the brilliance of Desai on social media
The news of Desai's passing has sent shockwaves across the film community in India with many expressing their grief on his untimely demise.
Taking to Twitter, actor Neil Nitin Mukesh wrote, "Cannot accept the heartbreaking news! He was simply a genius...A visionary artist with grace who understood not just his craft but people. He was a positive soul who spread only love to all."
Twitter Post
Actor Riteish Deshmukh condoled the demise of Desai
Deeply shocked to know that #NitinDesai, a legendary Production Designer who has contributed immensely to the growth of Indian cinema in no more. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.
— Riteish Deshmukh (@Riteishd) August 2, 2023
I had known him for years.. soft spoken, humble, ambitious & a visionary… you… pic.twitter.com/Pgkz4Mx3K7
Career and contributions
The illustrious career and life of Desai
The National Award-winning art director embarked on his Bollywood journey as the fourth assistant director on the sets of the TV show, Tamas.
Through his dedication, he swiftly climbed the ladder of success, eventually working on acclaimed films like Slumdog Millionaire and Once Upon A Time In Mumbai.
In 2005, Desai established his own studio, ND Studios—located on the outskirts of Mumbai in Karjat.