Ashish Srivastava

Ashish Srivastava

Ashish Srivastava is a highly accomplished and versatile designer with expertise in the fields of fashion, handicrafts, and interiors. With a Master’s degree in Design and an extensive experience of 25+ years, he has made remarkable contributions to the design industry, film sector, design education, and the preservation of traditional crafts. Ashish’s creative vision, vast knowledge, and commitment to excellence have established him as a respected figure in the field.

Professional Experience:

1. Assistant Costume Designer in Bollywood (5 years): Ashish Srivastava worked as an Assistant Costume Designer in the prestigious Bollywood film industry for a period of 5 years. During this time, he actively participated in the creation of captivating and visually stunning costumes that brought characters to life on the big screen.
2. Design Educator (University of Allahabad & Uttar Pradesh Institute of Design & Research, 20 years): Ashish’s passion for sharing knowledge and nurturing young talent led him to work as a Design Educator for almost two decades in renowned government institutions. He made significant contributions to the field of design education while serving at the University of Allahabad and Uttar Pradesh Institute of Design & Research. Ashish played an instrumental role in developing the syllabi for several flagship design programs, ensuring a comprehensive and industry-relevant education for students.

Notable Achievements:

1. Introduction of “Costume Design for Television & Film Industry” (University of Allahabad, 2004): Recognizing the importance of specialized education in costume design for the television and film industry, Ashish Srivastava took the pioneering step of introducing the course “Costume Design for Television & Film Industry” at the University of Allahabad. This groundbreaking initiative paved the way for aspiring designers to acquire the skills necessary to excel in the world of screen-based costume design.
2. Establishment of 3-year Diploma Programs (Uttar Pradesh Institute of Design & Research, 2021): Ashish’s dedication to design education continued with the establishment of two three-year diploma programs at Uttar Pradesh Institute of Design & Research. He played a vital role in creating a diploma program in Costume Design & Garment Technology and another in Craft Technology. These programs provide students with specialized knowledge and practical skills in their respective domains.

Contributions to Craft Preservation:

Empanelled as a Designer with the Ministry of Textiles, Ashish Srivastava’s commitment to promoting and preserving traditional crafts is evident through his collaborations with artisans across various states in India. He has worked closely with artisans from Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Pondicherry, and Bihar. Through these collaborations, he has not only supported the artisans but also helped preserve and showcase the rich cultural heritage of these regions through his designs.

Co-Founder of:

1. Akalk India Pvt. Ltd.: This company is dedicated to the business of crafts, design, and lifestyle, where Ashish Srivastava contributes his design expertise to create unique and culturally inspired products.
2. Akalk Foundation: Ashish is also a co-founder of Akalk Foundation, an NGO working in the field of handicrafts, sustainable food and clothing, and creating awareness about hygiene and sanitation. Through this organization, he is actively involved in social and environmental initiatives, further demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact on society.

Ashish Srivastava’s expertise, experience, and passion for design, coupled with his contributions to design education and craft preservation, make him a distinguished and respected figure in the industry. His commitment to excellence and innovation continues to inspire aspiring designers and uplift the art of design in India.