Aegan Ekambaram: A Visionary Costume Designer Bringing Tradition and Innovation to Cinematic Fashion
Aegan Ekambaram, a name that resonates deeply within the world of costume design, is a visionary whose work has elevated cinematic fashion to an art form. Coming from a weaving family in Ammayarkuppam, Thiruvallur District, Aegan’s connection to textiles and design runs deep in his veins. His expertise in naturalistic costume design, combined with a rich understanding of Indian culture and tradition, has led to creations that are not merely costumes but extensions of the characters themselves.
A Journey Rooted in Tradition and Craft
Growing up in a family steeped in the tradition of weaving, Aegan ’s affinity for textiles was inevitable. The intricate process of weaving, along with a profound connection to natural colours, became a cornerstone of his design philosophy. Natural colour research remains one of his deepest passions, and it is this fascination with organic hues that forms the essence of his work. In fact, he has spent over 15 years experimenting with natural dyes, an endeavor that has yielded ground breaking results in the world of film costume design.
Aegan has an impressive academic background, having completed a degree in History at Madaras University, followed by a degree in Industrial Textile Design at Chennai College of Fine Arts. His pursuit of knowledge didn’t stop there, as he also earned an MFA (Master of Fine Arts) in Industrial Textile Design from the same institution. His dedication to learning spanned over 12 years, both during his undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Aegan’s deep understanding of history has significantly influenced his costume design work, allowing him to create designs that are not only innovative but also rich in historical context. Currently, Aegan is pursuing an M.Phil. at the Music College in Adyar, as well as a Ph.D. in Textile Design. During his time at Chennai College of Fine Arts, he was greatly supported and guided by Mrs. Ratha Sivakumar, who played a pivotal role in his growth. Additionally, Aegan draws inspiration from Jean-Francois, a leading costume designer known for his historical work, including creating costumes for Napoleon’s court by his ancestors. Aegan has had the opportunity to closely collaborate with Jean-Francois, and his work was recently featured in the prestigious French magazine The World of Interiors, further establishing his presence in the international design community.
Aegan ‘s formative years in art and design were shaped at Lepakshi, a school not just known for its teachings but also as an art gallery in itself. The art and architecture of this renowned temple-cum-art hub further influenced his approach to costume design, blending the ancient with the modern in a seamless and spectacular manner.
The Signature Style of Aegan Ekambaram
What sets Aegan Ekambaram apart in the highly competitive world of costume design is his ability to marry authenticity with contemporary flair. His creations are not just clothes but narratives in themselves, speaking to the personality, struggles, and triumphs of the characters they represent. From “Sarpatta Parambarai” to “BlueStar,” his designs reflect a mastery in translating cultural richness into cinematic visual poetry.
Notable for his collaborations with prominent filmmakers, Aegan ’s work with director PA Ranjith has become iconic, particularly in films like Sarpatta Parambarai and Thangalaan. For Thangalaan, Aegan designed every costume with great attention to detail, including the handmade shawl worn by the character Varadhan. The shawl, dyed using completely natural colors, exemplifies his dedication to preserving traditional methods in the modern world of cinema. It’s a testament to his belief that the past and present should coexist, weaving cultural heritage into the fabric of contemporary storytelling.
Aegan Ekambaram’s career so far is a testament to his skill and dedication to his craft. His filmography includes standout projects such as Irugapatru, Sarpatta Parambarai, Vaa Vaathiyar, Thangalaan, Blue Star, J Baby, Bison, and Bottle Radha. Each of these films is a canvas for Aegan to bring his visions to life, with costumes that highlight not only the storyline but also the deep cultural roots of the characters.
In the movie Thangalaan, the main lead actor Vikram’s accessories stand out not just for their unique aesthetic but for their historical significance. Designer Aegan went beyond simple craftsmanship by diving deep into research about the accessories used by tribals in the 5th century, specifically from the lands around KGF, India. His investigation revealed that these accessories were not only symbolic but also served a medicinal purpose — they were believed to help heal wounds from insect bites in the dense forests. Aegan, with his visionary approach, sourced raw materials based on this ancient knowledge and meticulously recreated these accessories for the film, making them a powerful connection between the past and present. His dedication and attention to detail bring an authenticity to the character and the world of Thangalaan, showcasing the fusion of history and art in an extraordinary way.
The Role of Natural Dyes in Aegan ’s Work
One of the unique aspects of Aegan Ekambaram’s costume design is his dedication to using natural colors. For over 15 years, he has dedicated himself to researching and experimenting with natural dyes, integrating them into his costume designs. His work reflects his deep respect for Indian traditions and his desire to preserve these methods in an age where synthetic materials dominate the fashion world.
Aegan ’s work with natural dyes is not just about aesthetics but also about sustainability and cultural preservation. By reviving age-old techniques, he brings authenticity to every project, ensuring that the garments reflect the essence of the characters and the historical contexts they belong to. Whether it’s the deep indigo shades from indigofera plants or the earthy tones from natural plant-based sources, Aegan ‘s commitment to these age-old processes is evident in every creation.
As Aegan steps into the world of Tollywood with his new project, he expresses deep gratitude for the opportunity to work with director Buchi Babu Sana and the chance to contribute to the Telugu film industry. For Aegan , this is not just about making a mark in a new industry, but about learning, growing, and exploring the rich traditions of Telugu culture. His work with Telugu cinema is a new chapter that will allow him to apply his expertise in a new cultural context, as he continues to push boundaries and innovate in his field.
Working with Ram Charan, one of the biggest stars in the industry, is a dream come true for Aegan. He looks forward to this collaboration not only as a professional challenge but as an opportunity to grow and expand his design vocabulary. The chance to bring his unique vision to Telugu cinema is something he’s been waiting for, and he’s eager to see where this new journey takes him.
Aegan Ekambaram’s work is more than just costume design; it is a fusion of culture, tradition, and innovation. Through his dedication to natural dyes, his meticulous craftsmanship, and his deep respect for the cultural heritage of India, Aegan continues to redefine what it means to design for the screen. With every project, he creates costumes that are not only visually stunning but deeply resonant with the characters and stories they represent. As Aegan steps into the world of Telugu cinema, there’s no doubt that his artistry will continue to shape the world of cinematic fashion for years to come.