In a solemn tribute that both celebrates life and acknowledges loss, the 96th Academy Awards held its traditional ‘In Memoriam’ segment, this time honoring Indian art designer Nitin Desai, whose visionary work left an indelible mark on the film industry. Nitin Desai was acclaimed for his role as a production designer in numerous blockbuster Hindi films, including the Oscar-nominated epic “Lagaan” and the visually arresting “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam.”
The ‘In Memoriam’ part of the Oscars ritualistically pays homage to the luminaries of the film fraternity who have passed away over the preceding year. Set against the backdrop of reminiscences and nostalgia, Desai’s demise was a particularly poignant moment during the most recent ceremony. The 57-year-old took his own life on August 2, 2023, in Karjat, a locale near Mumbai known for its scenic film shooting locales.
During a career that spanned more than three decades, Desai made a name for himself in Bollywood and beyond, through his collaboration with some of the most distinguished filmmakers, like Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Rajkumar Hirani, and Ashutosh Gowariker. His remarkable breadth of work encompassed grand historical film sets for movies like “Jodhaa Akbar” and the regal opulence evident in “Prem Ratan Dhan Payo.” He also lent his creative expertise to the set design of India’s beloved quiz show, “Kaun Banega Crorepati.”
The reflective segment commenced with a commendation to Alexei Navalny, Russian opposition leader, evoking a somber tone from the start. Navalny, who became a symbol of resistance against authoritative governance in Russia, also had a documentary detailing his political struggles win an Oscar at the previous year’s ceremony.
Augmenting the emotional ambiance was the Italian music icon Andrea Bocelli, joined by his son Matteo Bocelli, who performed a stirring rendition of ‘Time to Say Goodbye,’ captivating the audience in a shared moment of remembrance.
The ceremony went on to honor a diverse group of talent that the world had lost. Alongside Nitin Desai, the in-depth range of honorees included the likes of stalwart actors Carl Weathers, Lee Sun-Kyun, Glenda Jackson, Ryan O’Neal, Michael Gambon, and Julian Sands. The world of music bid adieu to legends Tina Turner and Harry Belafonte. Comedy lost a brilliant light in Richard Lewis, who was similarly memorialized during the Oscars broadcast.
In a retrospective gaze, prior Oscars telecasts have also paid respects to Indian cinema greats such as actor Irrfan Khan and Oscar-winning costume designer Bhanu Athaiya, while luminaries Rishi Kapoor and Sushant Singh Rajput were posthumously featured on the official website of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
As the Academy and the global film community continue to acknowledge the artistic contributions of gifted individuals no longer with us, the Oscars’ tribute not only serves as a memorial but also as a testament to the legacy these individuals leave behind.
In conclusion, the broadcast unassumingly reminded viewers of the seriousness of mental health and provided information for those who may require assistance. Sanjivini, Society for Mental Health, avails a suicide prevention helpline and was duly noted for viewers needing support.
The night, filled with its celebrations for cinematic achievements, was equally marked by the respect paid to those who have shaped the landscape of entertainment through their profound dedication, leaving audiences around the world bereft of their talents but enriched by their contributions to the tapestry of Indian cinema.
