Costume designer Josyula Gayathri Devi, who started out as a fashion designer, is slowly finding her footing in the Telugu film industry. 'Vikkatakavi', currently streaming on ZEE5, is her most recent work.
In her latest interview, the budding costumer has talked about her journey, saying that her corporate career began with Samsung and Microsoft. Since she felt fashion designing was her calling, she made a drastic career move. "Having grown up learning stitching and embroidery at home, I thought fashion designing could also be a good foundation for starting a business. Initially, I had planned to set up a boutique business after turning 40. But since I had already left my job, I decided to pursue the idea immediately," she says.
Gayathri Devi's boutique business took a hit due to the covid-induced lockdown in 2020. While she plans to launch something bigger soon, her career in the film and OTT industries is taking off. 'Palasa 1978' and Aha's 'Kudi Yedamaithe' are among her early creative assignments. 'Parahushar', 'Kalapuram', and 'Sarvam Shaktimayam', among others, are also her works. "'Kalapuram' was a significant learning experience for me because it taught me how to manage a full outdoor project efficiently with a limited budget and manpower," she says.
'Harikatha', produced by People Media Factory and to be streamed soon on Disney Plus Hotstar, is also coming up. "My experience with 'Harikatha' directly helped me while working on 'Vikkatakavi'. Working on periodic series with unique concepts isn’t a regular occurrence, so when such opportunities arise, one must seize them," she adds.
Gayathri Devi keeps herself updated by watching the films/series made in Hindi, French, and Korean languages. "Being busy is never an excuse to stop learning. Staying informed about trends and techniques is crucial for growth," she reflects.
'Marmayogi', directed by Satish Vegesna, is her next series. To be streamed on Hotstar, it went on the floors recently. 'Manasachora' is her upcoming movie.
