Indian fashion designer Wendell Rodrix dies

Born on 28 May 1960, Rodricks is considered a pioneer of Indian fashion. He is also an activist on issues related to the environment. In 2014, he was honored by the government with Padma Shri – the fourth largest civilian award in India.

Rodricks may have caused controversy in later life, but the former Omani resident was a fashion first in the ’90s. He burst onto the scene a decade ago when the fashion industry was still trying to find its voice in India. Rodriquez also contributed to Lakme Fashion Week in 2000.

The following year, Rodricks kicked off Dubai Fashion Week with his linen and cotton label, promoting sustainable style before it became a fashion motto in 2019.

In a 2017 interview with Gulf News, Rodericks also spoke about bringing plus-size designer clothing to the masses through his aALL Primero collection.

“I believe in fashion democracy – it [fashion] Suitable for everyone, regardless of age, skin tone or body type. In fact, when we showed some clients the sketches, they also wanted to buy the regular size,” he said in the interview. “I was both amazed and amused when I saw the unnecessary drama and chaos in the fashion world. The flattery, paranoia, and insecurities are surreal. Come on, we’re just glorious tailors…”

During his career, Rodriquez would go on to open the Moda Goa Museum, design uniforms for the Goan Police Band, revive the traditional Goan attire of the Kumbhi saree, and retire gracefully from the ramp.

“After working in hotel management in Mumbai and working in the Royal Oman Police Force for many years, dealing with Sultans, Sheikhs, Presidents, Prime Ministers, etc., I realized that one can approach the world in a disciplined, restrained and orderly manner . I learned discipline from a young age,” Rodriquez said in the same interview.

When asked about his proudest achievement, he replied: “I don’t think about myself at all. There’s a lot to do if you don’t think about yourself and develop unnecessary ego. I live in a small town in Goa. In the real world of the village. Life in the ivory tower is not my feeling at all. Apart from my partner and my dog, I love this journey called life. I am always excited about life and this big and beautiful world.”

In later years, Rodriquez often caused controversy, naming Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Priyanka Chopra Jonas in her fashion choices on the red carpet (Priyanka Chopra Jonas) and other Bollywood stars.

Celebrities and fashion figures have come forward to express their shock and grief at his sudden death.

In India, many politicians also came forward to mourn his death.

Textiles Minister Smriti Irani tweeted his condolences on Rodricks’ passing, writing: “Shocked to hear of the untimely death of one of India’s most renowned designers, Wendell Rodricks. My heartfelt condolences to his loved ones. May his soul rest in peace.”

Goa Minister Vishwajit Rane also tweeted. “I am deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of my dear friend and designer Wendell Rodricks. His excellence in work and skill was irreplaceable and will always be cherished He. We will truly miss him. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones,” he wrote.

Among those mourning his passing was the Fashion Design Council of India. “”The FDCI is deeply devastated by the sudden and tragic passing of one of the country’s iconic designers, Wendell Rodricks. The fashion world lost a legend today. Wendell, we will miss you,” the FDCI tweeted.

Madhur Bhandarkar, the film’s director, posted on social media: “Shocked to hear of the sudden passing of fashion designer Wendell Rodricks, my heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. He will be greatly missed. Rest in peace.”

Rodericks’ funeral will be held on Thursday in his ancestral village of Colvale.