An Afternoon with Neel Saha: Creativity, Resilience, and Inclusivity at ESEDS

The ESEDS School of Design, in collaboration with Techno India University, recently welcomed celebrated fashion stylist and designer Neel Saha for an unforgettable and heartfelt interactive session on 13th June, 2025. Held on the vibrant ESEDS campus, the event turned out to be more than just a talk — it became an emotional and empowering experience for everyone who attended. 

Neel Saha, a name that needs no introduction in the Tollywood fashion industry, has styled some of the biggest celebrities in Bengal. Known for his fearless creativity and eye for detail, his work has always stood out for its originality and boldness. From movie premieres to magazine covers, Neel’s styling has graced many memorable moments in the entertainment world. 

Neel stepped onto the stage and spoke about his early days—how he started out with small projects, how difficult it was to make a mark in such a competitive field, and the hard lessons he learned along the way. He didn’t sugar-coat his experiences; instead, he spoke openly about his struggles, rejections, and moments of self-doubt. But what stood out was his determination to never give up and to stay true to his creative vision. 

Adding to the significance of the event was Neel’s heartfelt discussion about Pride Month. In the spirit of June being a time to celebrate LGBTQIA+ identity and rights, Neel shared what Pride means to him, both personally and professionally. He spoke about the importance of self-acceptance, the fight against stereotypes, and the role of designers and artists in making the world more inclusive. His words touched many hearts, especially the students who often struggle with issues of identity and belonging.

The session became even more engaging when the floor opened for a lively Q&A round. Students asked him questions about his creative process, how he draws inspiration for his styling, how he manages deadlines for high-pressure celebrity shoots, and most importantly, how young designers can carve out their own space in the fashion world.

The interactive session with Neel Saha offered ESEDS School of Design students invaluable insights into the realities of the fashion industry and the importance of resilience and authenticity in a creative career. It underscored ESEDS’s commitment to providing a holistic educational experience that prepares students not only with design skills but also with the wisdom and perspective of industry leaders.