In the latest episode of the podcast Small Town Big Stories, renowned costume designer Rick Roy opens up about his journey from a small town to the vibrant world of Mumbai, offering a glimpse into his creative process and the lessons he has learned along the way.
Reflecting on his upbringing, Roy fondly remembers, “My mother was the only person who never asked me questions about me. She always said that a kid should be allowed to live the way he/she wants.” This supportive environment played a crucial role in shaping his artistic path.
He highlights the importance of clarity in his work, saying, “Clarity is one of the most important aspects of costume design. If the director has clarity about how they want to achieve something, it easily gets transferred to me and my team.” This clear communication is vital in the collaborative world of films and designs.
Moving to Mumbai at the age of just 17 brought its own set of challenges to begin with. Roy candidly shares, “Mumbai changes your upbringing and value system—everything that’s been taught to you from your hometown. There are certain things you have to learn in the city to survive.”
Friendships have been a cornerstone of his success. “Friends can make or break a person’s life. I have only survived in this city for 24 years because of my friends,” he reflects. His connections have been essential in navigating the complexities of city life and the fashion industry.
Roy also shares his admiration for actress Malaika Arora, stating, “Malaika has been my favourite and will always be my favourite. She’s a really nice person, and that is something which is more attractive.” This highlights the importance of positive relationships with other celebrities in his professional life.
On self-discovery, Rick Roy emphasises the power of travelling, stating, “Travel is very important for the development of your soul. You won’t understand about yourself until you spend time with yourself. You discover yourself when you’re alone.” He also underscores the significance of discipline and punctuality in this journey, noting, “Time plays an important part in one’s life. If you reach on time, half the battle is won. Being disciplined and on time shows respect.” Together, these principles highlight the importance of introspection and responsibility in personal growth.
As for the fashion industry, Roy reflects on its evolution: “Designing wasn’t popular when we started. Now, the fashion industry has become very glamorous. If you want to enter this industry, make sure you learn, attain all knowledge, and then come. Humility is very important when you start working.”
Rick Roy’s insights offer an inspiring look into the world of costume design, showcasing the blend of creativity, friendship, and personal integrity. His journey serves as motivation for aspiring designers eager to carve their own paths in the industry.
To watch the full episode of “Small Town Big Stories,” you can visit: https://youtu.be/SCqezu94hxU
About Small Towns Big Stories
Small Towns Big Stories, is a podcast hosted by Bestselling Penguin Novelist Pankaj Dubey, a platform agnostic storyteller, produced by Indian Storytellers, Vagabond Motion Pictures & Gautam Thakker Films. The series celebrates the journeys of artists from small towns who have attained excellence in different walks of life. With renowned guests like Faisal Malik, Irshad Kamil, Rohit Bose Roy, and many more, this podcast offers inspiring and relatable stories for all.
