Meet Your Neighbors: Shekhar Rahate

Shekhar Rahate is a popular name in fashion designing with choreographing for Femina Miss India, Finesse, fashion shows with top models, launched his brand “Tathastu” and  worked in Tyra bank's ’s “America’s next top model”. Shekhar has been honored by Cambridge who’s who of America. Shekhar talks to Bay Area Desi about all things bay!

Tell us something about yourself?

I was born in Mumbai, where my parents still live. I hold diplomas in fashion photography from JJ School of Arts, Mumbai and fashion designing from Beams International school of Designs, Dubai. I have been this profession for past 15 years working with national and international celebrities including past Miss World / Miss Universe / Miss Asia Pacific & many other title winners, presenting fashion shows & pageants in throughout the world. My designs have also been featured in movies like “Four Weddings & Shadi” and I have been fortunate enough to be the only designer in the world that was invited by the United Nations to present his collection in the prestigious General Assembly Hall at UN Headquarters, New York. At present, I am working as fashion designer & photographer, event organizer, runway model trainer, director of music videos & films.  

How did you get into the fashion industry?

I was a fashion photographer before I started doing fashion designing. I worked as male model for a while & got attracted to the designing part of modeling so I joined the fashion designing school in Dubai and rest is history.

What culture/country inspired your designs?

I am not inspired by one particular culture but global.

How was working with Tyra Bank (America’s Next Top Model)?

I never met Tyra in person but I work with her crew that was an amazing experience. Every aspect of the project was handled by highly professional crew.

Has being a “Desi” affected you?

Not really

Name five celebrities you would love designing clothes for. 

Michelle Obama, Angelina Jolie, Megan Fox, Natalie Portman and Beyonce Knowels.

Which is your favorite color and why?

Black – it fascinates me.

What are some of your favorite things to do in the Bay?

Walking on golden gate bridge, is my absolute favorite.

What are some of your favorite places to eat? Activities? Places to go?

I like Elephant bar, Ambar Indian Cuisine for places to eat.  I like to go to gym regularly and for  jogging.

If you had one piece of advice for South Asians, what would it be?

Go to gym … please!

How can people learn more about you & stay connected to you in future

People can contact me through WWW.SHEKHARRAHATE.COM or I am also on Facebook and Twitter.