Photo Finish

Directed by Rajinikanth’s daughter Soundarya R Ashwin,the film is unlike an animation film and the design sketches had to be further deconstructed using swatches. “Research has been integral to my work and for Kochadaiiyaan,I had to get the detailing in the armour and the weaponised look of the costumes right for it to leave an impact,” said the designer,who has received the National Award for Best Costume Design in a Film four times. “Everyone has high expectations this time around as well,and I am keeping my fingers crossed,” said Lulla,who spent eight months working on the film.

“Apart from the sketches,me and my team had to present each intricate detail on paper for each character. We sat with the technical team on how it would look on screen,how a particular fabric twirls or ruffles and how an embroidery reflects light. The final ensembles were then,through computer generation,superimposed on the silhouettes of the actors,” Lulla said. The technology used in the film saw teams from China,Chennai and Los Angeles work together on the final output. “Being a part of Kochadaiiyaan is a milestone in my career and I am really looking forward to its release later this year,” said Lulla.

Interestingly,she’s now working on the Telegu-film,Rudramadevi,a one-of-its-kind stereoscopic 3D film. “The film stars south India’s leading stars Anushka Shetty and Rana Daggubati in the lead. It’s another period film about a queen,” said the designer,who feels it is research-based work that keeps her motivated. “Fashion isn’t just about frills,and for me,a challenge of a period film is when I put all that I learnt at fashion school to use,” said Lulla,who considers her work as meditation. “And that’s why I do so much of it,” added Lulla,who would soon showcase her Kanjeevaram and Kalamkari collection. “I like blending Indian aesthetics and contemporary styling,and these two collections present the traditional fabrics in a new light,” said Lulla.