Renowned designer and film producer Manish Malhotra, a stalwart in the fashion and cinema industries for over three decades, is steadfast in his commitment to both crafts, emphasizing the central role of storytelling in his creative pursuits.

Speaking at the sidelines of the Lakme Fashion Week X FDCI, Malhotra expressed his enduring passion for filmmaking alongside his illustrious career in fashion. Reflecting on his journey, he revealed, "When I want to work on something which has nothing to do with clothes, what could it be? In my case, it would be movies. So I'm here to stay as a producer, as a designer, and I will work hard to curate and create some interesting stories."

Malhotra recently launched Stage5 Production, marking his foray into film production with projects like "Saali Mohabbat" and "Bun Tikki", featuring acclaimed actors and promising narratives. His fascination with cinema began early in life and continues to drive his creative vision. "For me, films seem home," he remarked, underscoring his deep-rooted connection to the cinematic arts.

Acknowledged for transforming costume design in Indian cinema, Malhotra's iconic contributions span blockbuster hits like "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge" and "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham…". His venture into production underscores a desire to support diverse storytelling, often bypassed by mainstream producers. "It's about the story that should be told," he emphasized, highlighting his commitment beyond commercial success.

Reflecting on his journey from modelling to establishing his fashion empire, Malhotra embraces risk-taking and learning from setbacks. "Every day is not Sunday. You fail, you make mistakes," he shared candidly, recalling his unconventional path in the industry.

As Lakme Fashion Week X FDCI drew to a close, Malhotra's dual roles exemplify a visionary approach where fashion and filmmaking converge, driven by a profound love for storytelling and a commitment to artistic innovation.