Costume designer Josyula Gayathri Devi recently shared insights about her experience working on the period detective series Vikkatakavi, streaming on ZEE5. Directed by Pradeep Maddali and featuring Naresh Agastya and Megha Akash, the series, produced by SRT Entertainments under Ram Talluri, offers a rich narrative set in 1940s Telangana.

Reflecting on her work, Gayathri Devi emphasised the uniqueness of designing for a period series. She highlighted the extensive research involved in creating costumes for Vikkatakavi, “Understanding Hyderabad’s 1940s context was crucial. Watching classics like Maa Bhoomi and delving into library archives helped capture the era’s essence accurately.” 

Born in Vizianagaram and raised in Chennai, Gayathri Devi initially pursued a career in computer science, working with Samsung and Microsoft. Her entry into films began with stitching projects for other designers, eventually landing her design roles in Palasa and the web series Kudi Yedamaithe. Her collaboration with director Karuna Kumar on Kalapuram and Sarvam Shaktimayam further honed her skills, particularly in managing outdoor shoots with budget constraints.

Currently, she’s working on Marmayogi for Hotstar and the film Manasachora.