Faculty

Elizabeth, an alumna of NID - Ahmedabad, holds a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Stella Maris College, Chennai, and pursued a postgraduate Program in textile design from NID - Ahmedabad. Commencing her career in 2011 as a senior designer in a leading export house in Bangalore, she transitioned into an independent textile designer specializing in textiles for home and Fashion.

With a fervent passion for textiles and design education, Elizabeth embarked on teaching, dedicating over 5 years to instructing various design modules at NIFT Chennai. She remains deeply involved in design practice, collaborating with the Integrated Design Services (IDS) at NID Ahmedabad. Her contributions extend to impactful projects with the Commissionerate of Handlooms, Government of Tamil Nadu, reflecting her commitment to both education and practical application within the field of design.

Elizabeth played a pivotal role in establishing the academic framework at DOT School of Design from its inception, serving as the former dean of academics. Currently, she spearheads DOT's design research and outreach program, embodying her commitment to advancing design education and practice.

As the Head of the Research and Outreach Cell, further solidifying her commitment to advancing the field of design through scholarly pursuits and community engagement.

Aparajithan, a dedicated artist with a BFA in Painting from the Govt. College of Fine Arts, Chennai, and an MFA from the Faculty of Fine Arts, M.S.University, Baroda, is deeply immersed in the world of art.

His artistic journey is marked by a multitude of group exhibitions spanning from 1998 to 2022, including prestigious showcases curated by renowned figures such as Mr. Reddappa Naidu and Ebenezer Singh. A recipient of the Tamil Nadu State Lalit Kala Akademi award for Painting in 1998 and a Junior Fellowship from the Culture Department, New Delhi, in 2022, Aparajithan's talent has garnered recognition and acclaim.

Beyond exhibitions, Aparajithan actively participates in artist camps, contributing his unique perspective to events such as the International Painters Camp from the SAARC Nations and the All-India Painters’ Camp. Currently based in Chennai, he also shares his expertise as a faculty member at esteemed institutions including the Government College of Fine Arts and the National Institute of Fashion Technology.

In both his artistic practice and teaching endeavours, Aparajithan embodies a profound dedication to creativity and artistic expression, enriching the cultural landscape of Chennai and beyond.

Kavitha, a distinguished alumna of Sathyabama University, holds a bachelor’s degree in architecture and later pursued her passion for Landscape Architecture at the postgraduate level.

With a keen interest in design thinking, exterior spatial design, and Landscape design, Kavitha excelled academically, earning the prestigious honor of ranking No. 1 in her university. Her exemplary academic performance was recognized with the honorable President's award. Her academic achievements extended beyond the classroom, with her thesis garnering recognition at the national thesis open day. Kavitha brings her expertise and dedication to ensuring the smooth functioning of academic affairs, bridging her academic excellence with administrative leadership.

Ajay, a distinguished Visual artist based in Chennai, embarked on his artistic journey after completing his bachelor’s degree from the Government College of Fine Art, Chennai, in 2010. Beginning his career as an Illustrator for a Children’s publishing house, he later assumed the role of Senior Graphic Designer at a leading Advertising Agency in Chennai.

Driven by a quest for further knowledge and mastery, Ajay pursued his post-graduation in Visual Communication from the esteemed College of Art, New Delhi. In 2016, he transitioned into academia, joining the faculty of the Visual Communication Department at College of Art, New Delhi, as an Assistant Professor. Over the course of more than 5 years, he imparted his expertise in Illustration, Graphic Design, and Animation to aspiring students.

Beyond teaching, Ajay passionately pursued his personal project, a Graphic Novel, showcasing his creative prowess and storytelling skills. Ajay brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to nurturing the next generation of designers, ensuring excellence and innovation in the field of communication design.

Rajalakshmi, a dynamic Interior & Furniture designer, is celebrated for her innovative approach to design. Drawing inspiration from diverse fields and emphasizing human behaviour, nature, and sustainability, she creates transformative spatial experiences.

Having earned her undergraduate degree from JBAS, Chennai, and her master’s in design from LPU, Punjab, specializing in Interior & Furniture Design, Rajalakshmi distinguished herself as the top-performing student in her cohort.

As the founder of The East Indian Company, she has collaborated with esteemed designers and architects, curating unique pieces and products that redefine spatial aesthetics. Her passion for mentorship and nurturing curiosity among students drives her commitment to fostering future design professionals. Rajalakshmi leads with her expertise and vision, shaping the next wave of designers through her advocacy of experimental design and commitment to lifelong learning.

With a master's degree in Product Design from the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad, and a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering from Anna University, Chennai, Rizvi brings a rich blend of academic excellence and practical experience to his role as the new Head of the Department of Industrial Design at DOT. His three years of hands-on experience in product design and entrepreneurship, coupled with his innovative mindset, position him as a dynamic leader poised to inspire the next generation of designers.

As the Co-Founder of Superlyfe, Rizvi showcased his entrepreneurial prowess by bootstrapping a retail chain brand from conception to a thriving business, achieving significant milestones within a short span. His strategic vision and ability to address challenges through design reflect his commitment to driving impactful solutions and fostering creativity in both academic and professional settings. With a passion for innovation and a user-centric approach, Rizvi is well-equipped to lead, leveraging his expertise in customer experience, product analysis, and entrepreneurial mindset to shape the future of industrial design.

Prazzi's journey in costume design and fashion commenced at NIFT-TEA College of Knitwear Fashion, where she honed her skills and passion for the craft. She firmly upholds the belief that a proficient fashion designer should be intricately involved in every facet of the process, from conceptualization to texture selection, pattern creation, styling, and overall presentation.

Inspired by Sabyasachi's philosophy that "clothing should seamlessly reflect one's intellect, Prazzi has adopted this ethos as her guiding principle throughout her career. Her professional achievements include adeptness in fittings, pattern making, garment construction, and gaining recognition not only as a designer but also as a model in fashion shows.

Prazzi's expertise extends to various facets of fashion, encompassing an acute understanding of activewear trends, color palettes, fabric compositions, sewing techniques, and textile pattern design. Her commitment to excellence and creativity serves as the cornerstone of her journey in the dynamic world of fashion design.

Navaneetha Krishnan R, an independent art practitioner hailing from Madurai, a graduate of the esteemed Film and Television Institute of India, Pune. His primary focus lies in delving into the aesthetic manifestations of indigenous knowledge systems within the rich tapestry of Indian culture. Presently, he is engrossed in a study of the traditional Terracotta horses prevalent in Tamil Nadu, aiming to bridge the realms of art and research within his artistic practice.

Ben Philip is a seasoned fashion designer, illustrator, and educator with over a decade of experience. He has taught at institutions such as Footwear Design and Development Institute and Hindustan Institute of Technology & Science, specializing in fashion design, portfolio development, and fashion illustration. Ben has also worked as Creative Head at Studio Heart and Partner at APT Garments, where he gained expertise in garment tech packs, design development, and production.

With a strong command of both traditional and digital design techniques, Ben brings creativity and practical industry knowledge to his teaching, inspiring students to succeed in the dynamic fashion world.

With over 10 years of experience in design innovation and product development, Girish Gopalakrishnan brings a blend of creativity, business acumen, and technology to his work. He has contributed to successful projects at companies like Scoprega S.p.A. (Milan, Italy) and Funskool India, developing impactful products that align with market needs and business goals. His expertise spans across product strategy, user-centered design, and prototyping, with a strong focus on delivering solutions that meet both functional and aesthetic criteria.

In addition to his industry work, Girish has received several accolades, including recognition in the ADI Design Index and a nomination for the prestigious Premio Compasso d’Oro (Golden Compass Award) in 2022. As an educator at DOT School of Design, he is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of designers by fostering a creative, hands-on learning environment.

Tamilarasi Chellaiah is a dedicated architect, design enthusiast, and passionate educator specializing in architecture and interior design. She holds a bachelor’s degree from MEASI Academy of Architecture and earned the top rank in the master’s program in Interior Architecture at Dr. MGR University.

With five years of practical experience at Space weaves, an innovative architecture and interior design firm, she brings invaluable industry insights to her teaching endeavours. As a faculty member at interior design institutes for four years, Tamilarasi excels in simplifying complex design concepts, fostering an interactive learning environment that encourages creativity.

Beyond her professional and academic commitments, Tamilarasi harbours a profound interest in Indian art, recognizing its potential to enhance contemporary design concepts with a unique cultural touch. Her diverse expertise renders her a versatile figure in the realm of architecture and design.

Sanah, a distinguished designer and researcher in sustainable fashion, emerged as a beacon of excellence by clinching a gold medal in Fashion Studies, igniting her passion for the field. Graduating from Pearl Academy, she garnered accolades for both academic excellence and innovative collections. Notably, her cutting technique, Planar Flux, gained recognition and was integrated into the curriculum at Iowa State University, where she also conducted sessions for graduate-level students.

Furthermore, Sanah's scholarly contributions extend to the realm of sustainable fashion frameworks, with her research published in collaboration with Springer Publications in the book "Models for Sustainable Framework in Luxury Fashion: Luxury and Models." Her chapter, titled "The Sustainable Model," reflects her profound insights into the subject.

Fortunate to receive mentorship from esteemed designer and cutter, Prof. Julian Roberts of the Royal College of Art (London), Sanah has embarked on numerous international collaborations. Notably, she has been appointed as the official Subtraction Cutting expert for India by Prof. Julian Roberts himself.

Amudhan, a filmmaker and curator, developed his passion for cinema in rural Tamil Nadu, watching films in makeshift theaters. After completing his studies in Development Communication, he co-founded MARUPAKKAM in 1996, a media group dedicated to documentary filmmaking. Over the years, he has made 20 films on social, political, and economic issues and founded the Madurai International Documentary and Short Film Festival and the Chennai International Documentary and Short Film Festival.

Amudhan also curates film festivals and has conducted workshops at institutions like NID, Jamia Millia Islamia, and LV Prasad Film Academy. Recently, he has explored Mobile Phone Filmmaking, addressed human anxieties and connected with nature in the post-lockdown era.

Praveen, equipped with a bachelor’s degree in architecture from A.M.S Academy of Architecture, Chennai, has expanded his skill set through a hybrid course in computational design and various workshops, including those at Makers Asylum and other fabrication labs. His professional journey includes roles as a 3D designer in a branding company, specializing in augmented reality, virtual reality, and 3D printing models. Alongside, he has freelanced on architectural projects and founded a company focusing on laser-cutting technology for producing idols and gift items. Furthermore, his experience in a furniture manufacturing factory has enriched his expertise in wood and metal fabrication. Praveen's transition from the interior department to the industrial department signifies his versatility and adaptability, poised to bring his diverse skills and experiences to new challenges and opportunities.

With over 30 years of experience in the fashion and garment industry, Ganesan K has built a distinguished career, starting from the ground up as a Helper and progressing through various roles such as Tailor, Sample Tailor, and Line Leader. His extensive industry experience provides him with a deep understanding of production management and garment costing (PMGC), making him an expert in these areas.

Ganesan transitioned into fashion education, where he contributed as a Lab Assistant, Junior Officer, and Product Specialist (FD) at Dream Zone Chennai Corporate office, part of the Pearl Academy of Fashion. His academic journey continued at McGan’s Ooty School of Fashion and Design College, where he served as an Assistant Professor for PM & GC subjects, sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience with aspiring designers.

A dedicated professional, Ganesan K brings a unique blend of industry insight and academic expertise, equipping the next generation of designers with the skills and understanding they need to succeed in the fast-paced world of fashion and design.

Dhwani Shah, a Mumbai-based graphic designer and illustrator, holds a degree in applied art from Sir J J Institute of Applied Art and a post-graduate diploma in graphic design from NID - Ahmedabad. She earned recognition by securing the first position in visual communication at the Pune Design Festival 2013.

Her professional journey commenced at TARA Books, where she honed her skills under the mentorship of Gita Wolf and Geetha.V, contributing to multiple book projects. She later collaborated with Locopopo Studio, specializing in illustration, branding, and packaging design. Transitioning to 'Therefore may' in Pune, she expanded her expertise in branding and packaging design.

As a speaker, Dhwani has shared her insights at esteemed institutions such as Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, where she discussed the art of handmade books. She also delivered a compelling talk titled 'Pushing the Boundaries of the Physical Book in an Age Writing Its Obituary' in Melbourne. Her creative interests span editorial illustrations, non-fiction graphic narratives, and hand lettering.

With a robust background spanning over 15 years in industrial design, Dinesh is a visionary leader known for his innovation and expertise. Armed with a Post Graduation in Industrial Design from D J Academy Of Design, Coimbatore, and a Post Diploma in Plastic Mold Design from CIPET, Chennai, his journey reflects a blend of academic excellence and practical skill.

From spearheading projects in e-bike industries to crafting solutions for medical products and consumer electronics, Dinesh's expertise shines through in his meticulous attention to detail and proficiency in CAD, rendering, and prototyping. As the founder of Lemorian Experience Design, he has cultivated an environment of creativity and collaboration, driving impactful contributions to the design and engineering field. Beyond his professional achievements, Dinesh's dedication to mentorship and knowledge sharing makes him a beacon of inspiration in the industry.

With over 21 years of experience in home furnishing and apparel product development, Sundaravalli N is a seasoned designer with a comprehensive understanding of manufacturing processes for both made ups and garments. She has a strong background in quality systems, including ISO, Six Sigma, and ERP systems, and excels in team leadership and communication.

Sundaravalli’s diverse career includes significant roles at top organizations such as GALA GROUP GmbH, BKS Textiles, and Eskay, where she led product development, managed design teams, and collaborated with international clients. Her work spans home decor, bed linens, and kitchen textiles, with a focus on creating seasonal collections and trend-driven designs. She has been instrumental in transforming concepts into market-ready products for brands across the globe, including Anthropologie, Crate and Barrel, and Walmart.

As a freelance designer, Sundaravalli brings her expertise in design development, sampling, and production to a wide range of projects. Her leadership and innovation continue to shape the home furnishing and fashion design industries.

Subash Chellamuthu, a seasoned User Experience Designer, embarked on his design journey with a background in Architecture, graduating from the esteemed National Institute of Technology, Trichy. His passion for design led him to further his education at NID Ahmedabad, where he obtained a postgraduate diploma in product design. With over 12 years of industry experience, Subash has established himself as a leading figure in UX/UI design, renowned for his meticulous attention to detail and robust research skills.

Throughout his career, Subash has collaborated with renowned brands such as Apple in the Retail segment, showcasing his expertise across diverse domains including Retail, Banking & Finance, Insurance, Education, Entertainment, Healthcare, Telecommunication, Life Science, and Logistics. His remarkable achievements include receiving awards for BMW Car Design in 2011 and Best Design Concept from Crompton Greaves in 2010, highlighting his innovative approach and dedication to excellence in design.

With a dynamic background in teaching and entrepreneurship, Dinesh brings 3 years of enriching experience to the table. Holding an MSc in Electronic Media from Anna University, he seamlessly blends academic knowledge with practical expertise. As an innovative designer, Dinesh is dedicated to crafting solution-oriented designs that tackle real-world problems.

His approach breaks away from traditional communication design, emphasizing creativity and forward-thinking. Always open to exploring out-of-the-box concepts, Dinesh aims to shape the future of design with fresh, groundbreaking ideas. Whether through his teaching or entrepreneurial projects, Dinesh strives to pave new paths in the design world. His forward-thinking approach ensures that his designs are not only effective but also set the stage for future advancements in the industry.

George K. Antoney is a distinguished graduate of the esteemed National Institute of Design in Ahmedabad, having completed his studies in 2010. Following his education, he embarked on a noteworthy journey in the entertainment industry, beginning with his tenure as a research associate at 'Aamir Khan Productions,' where he contributed to the acclaimed television show "Satyameva Jayate." Inspired by his passion for storytelling and visual communication, George later relocated to Chennai, where he co-founded the production house 'Kadhai Films' alongside two partners.

At Kadhai Films, George plays a pivotal role as the co-founder and director, spearheading the creative direction and strategic initiatives of the company. With a keen eye for detail and a dedication to cinematic excellence, he leads the team in crafting compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. George's visionary approach to communication design has enabled Kadhai Films to establish itself as a prominent player in the industry, delivering impactful storytelling experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Maniyarasan R is a multifaceted professional, renowned for his expertise in architecture, photography, and research. With a diverse academic background, including a bachelor’s degree in architecture from SPA Delhi and a Post-graduation in Photography Design from NID Ahmedabad, he brings a wealth of knowledge to his work. Currently pursuing his Ph.D. at IIT Hyderabad, Maniyarasan's research focuses on Architectural Documentation, reflecting his profound interest in history and heritage.

As a leader of a Design Research Cell at an esteemed architecture school, Maniyarasan plays a pivotal role in driving innovative research initiatives. His specialization in Photogrammetry and technical imaging in conservation practice showcases his commitment to preserving architectural heritage through cutting-edge techniques. With a unique blend of creativity and analytical acumen, he continues to push the boundaries of communication design, bridging the gap between architecture and imaging in profound ways.

With a B.Sc. Visual Communication Design from Madras University, Muralidharan embarks on a rich creative journey. From 1983 to 1993, pivotal roles marked his path. Beginning as a Visualizer at SmithKline Beecham (now Glaxo SmithKline), he adeptly crafted product promotions, supervised design production, and ensured print quality. At MICO (Motor Industries Co. Ltd.) as a Visualizer - Junior Officer (1986-1989), he managed diverse projects, from in-house magazines to sales promotions, collaborating with agencies for impeccable results. As Creative Head of Emerald Advertising (1989-1993), his contributions spanned industries.

Since 1993, Muralidharan has excelled in Communication Design, Graphic Design, Illustration, Cartooning, Textile Design, and Book Design. An influential educator, he shares his expertise at renowned institutions, currently at DOT School of Design in the field of communication design. Notably, he contributed to shaping curricula at Alagappa University in 2019.

Muralidharan's interests encompass reading, philosophy, cartooning, humour, writing, and design research, enriching his multifaceted journey.

With nearly four decades of extensive experience spanning Project Management, New Product Development, and Design & Engineering, Ajith Kumar Gopalakrishnan stands as a seasoned professional in the discipline of Industrial Design. Armed with a degree in Electrical Engineering from TKM College of Engineering, Kerala, he transitioned to Design, earning a postgraduate degree in M.Des from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Mumbai. Ajith's expertise extends beyond technical realms; he possesses exceptional communication skills, coupled with strong leadership abilities and a keen analytical mindset.

Notably, Ajith has showcased his academic prowess by presenting a paper on Designing Board Games at the International Conference on Designing for Children. His commitment to safety standards is evident through his membership in the Bureau of Indian Standards-Safety of Toys. Currently serving as a member of the Board of Studies, Ajith continues to contribute significantly to the field of Industrial Design, blending his wealth of experience with a passion for innovation and excellence.

With over 9 years of experience, Karthikeyan Gopinathan delivers impactful design solutions across agriculture, healthcare, consumer tech, and social development. Skilled in service design, product development, and user experience, he thrives on simplifying complex systems to drive meaningful change.

Currently, he leads human-centered design projects at the India Health & Climate Resilience Fellowship and previously worked as a Senior Service Designer at Yara Digital Farming. Karthikeyan also founded Xensible Innovation Lab, developing innovative solutions for remote physiotherapy.

Solaiappan R is a Communication Designer with a rich background in both design practice and education. He completed his studies in Communication Design at DJ Academy of Design, Coimbatore and has worked across various design domains, including graphic design and design consultancy. His career spans multiple organizations, including Studio Sky and Footboard, where he is the founder. He has worked with notable clients like Maney’s Creation in Wood, Suno India, TI Cycles, and Yellow Box.

In addition to his design work, Solaiappan is deeply committed to education. He has served as a Visiting Faculty at institutions such as DJ Academy of Design, Sasi Creative Institute of Design, and Tazhal Institute of Design, sharing his expertise with the next generation of designers.

Solaiappan's work has earned recognition, including being a finalist in the Taiwan International Design Competition (2019) and receiving a Jury Special Mention at the Arjun K Das Foundation (2020).

Akshaya a passionate and detail-oriented architect with a keen eye for design and a commitment to excellence. With a bachelor’s degree in architecture and extensive experience in both internships and startups, Akshaya brings a fresh perspective to every project. Currently working as Creative Faculty at Ed-trix in Chennai, she is dedicated to educating and inspiring the next generation of designers. With a strong foundation in software skills and a drive for continuous learning, Akshaya is ready to make a positive impact in any dynamic and collaborative work environment.

Geetika Juyal Chatterjee emerges as a contemporary artist with a rich academic background. She holds a master's degree in printmaking from M S University of Baroda, following her bachelor's degree in painting from Delhi College of Art. Additionally, she pursued a master’s in film & Video Communication from the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad, and gained valuable experience in the film industry in Mumbai & Bangalore.

Geetika's artistic journey is fuelled by her profound love and appreciation for creation. Her work delves into the realm of geometrical abstraction, serving as a language that articulates the intricate patterns of the universe. A dedicated student of Sacred Geometry, she was honoured with a research fellowship by the government of India. Her ongoing research endeavour, titled 'The Inherent Logic in Aesthetics,' epitomizes her lifelong dedication to exploring the essence of beauty.

As a visiting faculty member at NID, Kurukshetra, Geetika imparts her knowledge and expertise to aspiring artists. Her artistic endeavours have been showcased in various exhibitions and art residencies across India.

Binita Ramanathan is deeply fascinated by the interplay of colors and patterns, which served as her gateway into the world of fashion. Following her completion of a bachelor's degree in fashion from FDDI, Chennai, she embarked on a journey as a freelance costume stylist, lending her creative touch to various prominent brands and businesses across the country. Alongside her styling endeavors, Binita possesses a natural talent for fashion illustrations, a skill that enriches her creative repertoire. Drawing upon her diverse experiences, she has ventured into entrepreneurship, launching her own clothing label that reflects her unique vision and style.

Vrajbalan Jayaraman is a seasoned designer with a notable track record in eco-friendly hotels, restorative design, and various media projects, including TV commercials, short films, and web series. With a background in Psychology, she brings a unique perspective to her work, emphasizing functional and aesthetic solutions that prioritize responsible planning and resource optimization. Known for her self-driven approach and unwavering commitment to client satisfaction, Vrajbalan's diverse experience spanning over 13 years reflects her dedication to both design excellence and community impact.

Combining her expertise in design and psychology, Vrajbalan has made significant contributions to various projects, leveraging her comprehensive skill set to deliver impactful outcomes. Her holistic approach to design underscores her dedication to creating spaces that not only inspire but also contribute positively to the well-being of individuals and the environment.

M. V. Azhagiya Manavalan stands as a seasoned cinematographer with over two decades of prolific experience within the film industry. Throughout his illustrious career, he has lent his expertise to a myriad of multilingual projects, spanning feature films, tele-series, ad films, short films, and documentaries. Renowned for his proficiency in cinematography and adeptness with cutting-edge technology, Azhagiya Manavalan has collaborated with esteemed figures in the film industry, leaving an indelible mark on each production he touches.

Beyond his stellar cinematographic achievements, Azhagiya Manavalan is also recognized as a revered guest faculty member in numerous media schools, where he shares his wealth of knowledge and experience with aspiring filmmakers. His comprehensive portfolio boasts an impressive array of accomplishments, including multiple feature films, tele-serials, ad films, documentaries, and reality shows across major South Indian channels. With accolades such as the best supporting actor award for his performance in the television series 'KATHIRVELU,' Azhagiya Manavalan continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of cinematic talent with his unwavering dedication and expertise.

Charanyha Lakshmmi Sethuraman is the visionary force behind altlab innovators, an enterprise dedicated to upcycling waste products and pioneering sustainable spatial and furniture design solutions. Her journey into design began during her undergraduate studies in Architecture at the prestigious National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirapalli, where she cultivated a deep-rooted passion for sustainable design practices. This passion propelled her to pursue a master's degree in Furniture & Spatial Design at the esteemed National Institute of Design.

With a firm belief in the transformative power of design to address environmental challenges, Charanyha embarked on a career path that allowed her to integrate sustainability principles into her creative endeavours. Having honed her skills as a furniture and spatial designer at prominent organizations such as RF square, Hindustan Unilever Ltd, and Ideinlab Architects, she eventually founded AltLab Innovators in Bangalore. For Charanyha, designing goes beyond aesthetics; it is a profound responsibility to create solutions that resonate with ecological sensibilities. Her commitment to preserving the planet and her innate drive to reimagine discarded materials have catalysed the innovative initiatives undertaken by AltLab Innovators, setting a new standard for sustainable design practices in the industry.

Sivakumar Thangavelu is an accomplished Industrial Designer with a wealth of experience spanning over 6 years in international settings. With a multifaceted background encompassing Industrial Design, Interaction Design, and Architectural Design, Sivakumar thrives on blending technology with human-centric principles to craft captivating and purposeful product experiences. His portfolio boasts collaborations with renowned global brands such as Microsoft, Hitachi, Haier, Bissell, Bosch, Karcher, Mercedes, and DJI, among others.

Beyond his professional endeavours, Sivakumar is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of design talent. As a visiting faculty member at both national and international design institutions, he imparts his vast knowledge and expertise to aspiring designers, empowering them to shape the future of design. Currently serving as the lead designer at Deep blue Technology in China, Sivakumar continues to push the boundaries of innovation while fostering creativity and excellence in industrial design education.

Tawfik Manham, serving as the Lead Designer at Trimble, brings over five years of seasoned experience in industrial design to his role. His professional journey spans across esteemed organizations such as Panasonic India, Lokus Design, Jonex Sports, and the Godrej Innovation Cell. Through these ventures, he has garnered extensive expertise in diverse sectors including appliances, healthcare, and packaging design. Holding a degree in Electrical & Electronics Engineering, Tawfik further honed his skills by pursuing a master's in Product Designing from the prestigious National Institute of Design in Ahmedabad.

With a meticulous approach to design and a passion for innovation, Tawfik endeavours to create impactful solutions that transcend conventional boundaries. His multidisciplinary background equips him with a unique perspective, allowing him to navigate complex design challenges with finesse. As a lead designer at Trimble, he continues to push the boundaries of industrial design, leveraging his wealth of experience and expertise to drive forward-thinking initiatives in the field.

Chippy Diac Vivekanandah, an accomplished product designer, serves as the VP of Design at Ionixx Technologies, a prominent software development firm with a global presence. Leading the charge in transforming Ionixx into a design-centric organization, Chippy has redefined the company's product development strategies. With a background in Mechanical Engineering and expertise in Industrial and Material Design, she has undertaken diverse projects spanning various sectors, including banking, healthcare, and telecommunications, establishing herself as a versatile design strategist.

Beyond her corporate role, Chippy is passionate about education, teaching research methodology, user experience, and product design. Her dedication to nurturing young minds led her to develop a curriculum on nature journaling for children, aiming to cultivate their observational skills. Through her teaching philosophy, she believes in unlocking the immense potential of her students by instilling in them the art of keen observation.

Farooq Mohammed is an esteemed advertising filmmaker and co-founder of Kadhai Films, based in Chennai. With a passion for visual storytelling, Farooq embarked on his creative journey after completing his bachelor's degree in fine arts at the Government College of Fine Arts, Chennai. He further honed his skills by pursuing post-graduation in filmmaking at the renowned National Institute of Design in Ahmedabad.

Throughout his illustrious career, Farooq has distinguished himself by producing and directing numerous popular television commercials, showcasing his innate talent for captivating storytelling. His expertise extends to post-production, where he excels in editing and color grading, adding depth and emotion to his visual narratives. As an avid photographer, Farooq finds joy in capturing moments through the lens, with a preference for the authenticity and charm of film photography. His dedication to his craft and his commitment to excellence continue to inspire and resonate within the industry.

Hari Prasad Udayakumar, a versatile filmmaker and co-founder of Kadhai Films, transitioned from graphic design to storytelling and filmmaking. As a graduate of the National Institute of Design's Film & Video Communication program, he initially worked as a production designer for an independent feature film. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to co-found Kadhai Films, an advertising film production house, where he serves as a producer and director. With a keen eye for uncovering new narratives and fostering talent, he is committed to producing diverse storytelling formats. Alongside his filmmaking endeavours, Hari Prasad and his partners have embarked on a new venture aimed at creating commercially viable parallel content.

Driven by his passion for storytelling and a desire to innovate, Hari Prasad is dedicated to expanding the horizons of creative expression. His commitment to nurturing emerging talent and exploring new avenues for content creation underscores his vision for Kadhai Films and their broader aspirations in the industry.

V. Dhakshina Murthy stands as one of South India's eminent visual artists, celebrated for his profound commitment and influence in the field of fine arts. A graduate of the Madras College of Arts and Crafts, Class of 1982, his artistic journey unfolds as a multifaceted exploration of various interests and inspirations. With a penchant for delving into ancient temples and ruins, he seeks out the subtle artistic nuances crafted by sculptors of bygone eras, enriching his creative palette with historical depth and cultural resonance.

Renowned for his vibrant oil canvases, Dhakshina Murthy's work captivates viewers with its unique portrayal of movement and colour interplay. His compositions evoke a mesmerizing fusion of hues, planes, and spaces, where textures transition seamlessly from serene veneers to bold strokes, creating dynamic visual narratives. Alongside his artistic endeavours, Dhakshina Murthy harbours a profound admiration for the female form and its enduring significance in art and culture. Through numerous group exhibitions, both nationally and internationally, he continues to inspire and engage audiences, while also imparting his knowledge and passion as the head of art studies at DOT School of Design.

Archana Anantharaman, vibrant Head of the Department of Fashion Design. With a tapestry of experiences from esteemed institutions and industries, she weaves creativity and innovation into the design community.

As an educator, Archana's been a beacon of inspiration, nurturing budding talents in design thinking and colour theories at renowned institutions like DJ Academy of Design and St. Teresas College. But she's not just about the classroom. Archana's passion extends to the realm of research, where she's mentored students to dream up solutions that are not just stylish but sustainable, like crafting a better safety mask for the future. And when it comes to industry, Archana's got the Midas touch. Her stint at ANT Apparels and Arvind Brands saw her breathe life into projects, from conceptualizing dapper menswear for TV shows to designing nature-inspired costumes that wowed fashionistas. But it's not all glamour and glitz. Archana is also the architect behind seamless event planning, project management, and communication strategies that make the magic happen behind the scenes.

With accolades like the UGC NET and BD Bangur Endowment Prize under her stylish belt, Archana is not just a leader; she's a visionary, ready to lead fashion design department into a future brimming with creativity, innovation, and endless possibilities.

With over 15 years of rich expertise in Fashion Design, Mrs. Abinaya Ganga holds a bachelor’s degree in Costume Design and Fashion from Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, and G-Tech (Garment Manufacturing Technology) from Bharathiar University, Ettayapuram. Commencing her career as a Merchandiser at Meenakshi India Ltd., she swiftly transitioned into academia, driven by a fervent passion for teaching and continuous learning.

Mrs. Abinaya Ganga has served as a faculty member at the National College of Design, specializing in Fashion Design, and later as a Senior Faculty at Dreamzone School of Creative Studies, Annanagar. Proficient in Pattern Making Construction, Garment Manufacturing Technology, Pattern CAD, Surface Embellishment, and Photoshop, she has also contributed her design expertise to renowned brands like Columbia Sportswear, Ostin, and Ashwathy Premium.

In addition to her design roles, Mrs. Abinaya Ganga has showcased her versatility as a Backstage Manager for prestigious fashion events, including the Tamil Fashion Show, Vibes 360° Guinness Record, and Emerging Fashion Designers Week.

Ramya Vidhyasagar Gurumoorthy is an accomplished Architect and Interior Designer renowned for her meticulous attention to detail and exceptional design skills. With a bachelor’s degree in architecture from NIT Trichy, Ramya specializes in crafting innovative interior and spatial designs for residential, clinical, and office spaces. Her expertise was honed during her tenure with the design team at Reliance Retail EPC, where she played a pivotal role until 2013.

Driven by a passion for creativity and a penchant for challenge, Ramya has embarked on a freelancing journey, undertaking diverse architecture and interior design projects. This endeavour not only allows her to tackle complex design challenges but also enables her to pursue her personal interests, including pencil and oil portraits. Committed to sharing her wealth of knowledge, Ramya harbours a deep-seated desire to educate and inspire the next generation of designers, reflecting her dedication to both her craft and the development of aspiring talents.