Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shubham Rajpal . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Shubham , thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The most meaningful project I’ve had the privilege of working on is ‘Words of Pride’, a powerful docuseries produced by Star Hopper Productions in collaboration with Disney Star. It was one of my first opportunities to step into the role of Production Designer, and it remains incredibly close to my heart.

The series explores the stories of multiple queer individuals and couples across India, each navigating their unique journeys of identity, self-expression, and the challenges posed by a lack of inclusive vocabulary in Indian languages for the queer community. These interviews delve into how the absence of appropriate words impacts communication, acceptance, and belonging. It’s a poignant and socially significant initiative, and I’m proud to have been a part of it.

This project holds special meaning for me because I’m queer myself. Being part of a production that not only tells these vital stories but does so with an entirely queer cast and crew felt like a celebration of authenticity and solidarity. In a country like India, where conversations about queer identities are still finding their footing in mainstream discourse, Words of Pride was a groundbreaking effort, and to do it in collaboration with a major platform like Disney was empowering.

The design process presented a unique challenge. Each subject’s story was distinct, and my goal was to translate their experiences into visual elements that resonated deeply. From conceptualizing abstract, textured backdrops to curating props, costumes, and outdoor sequences, every detail had to align with the essence of the individual being featured. It was a departure from the typical production design for feature films, but that’s what made it so exciting and fulfilling.

What made this project even more special was the collaboration. Working closely with the director and the director of photography, we crafted a cohesive visual language that tied the series together while celebrating each individual’s identity. The energy on set was positive and collaborative, which made the entire process feel seamless and joyful.

The impact of Words of Pride extends far beyond the screen. The series has received multiple awards and continues to inspire audiences, establishing itself as more than just a project—it’s a movement. For me, it wasn’t just about creating sets; it was about contributing to a meaningful dialogue and leaving a lasting legacy for the community.

This experience also gave me lifelong connections with some of the most talented and kind-hearted professionals in the industry. I look forward to creating more magic with them in the future.

Shubham , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I like to think of my journey as a blend of exploration, creativity, and constant learning. I was born and raised in a small town in India called Firozabad, where my love for storytelling and performing arts began early. Whether it was school stage performances, costume play, or just daydreaming about creating imaginary worlds, I always had a flair for visual and creative expression.

This passion evolved into something more structured when I pursued a degree in architecture. Architecture gave me a deep understanding of space, form, and the psychology of how people interact with their environments. But while designing buildings was fulfilling, I realized my true calling lay in storytelling through visual design. That’s when I took a leap into the world of production design.

Starting as a freelancer in the Bollywood industry, I worked on a range of projects—feature films, web series, and over 30 TV commercials. Some notable milestones include my role as an assistant production designer for Maidaan, a large-scale Bollywood feature, and as an associate production designer on Gumraah. But one of the projects I hold closest to my heart is Words of Pride, a docuseries I production designed for Disney Star and Star Hopper Productions. It was not just creatively challenging but also personally meaningful as it gave me the opportunity to give back to the queer community.

What sets me apart, I believe, is my versatility. I’ve worked across various mediums, from films to TV commercials to theatre, and now I’m expanding my horizons in the United States as I pursue my MFA in Production Design at SCAD. Here, I’ve been fortunate to explore set design for theatre, including a Broadway-production at New York, and refine my technical skills by working in the scene shop. Building sets hands-on has deepened my understanding of materials, fabrication, and the physicality of design, which complements my conceptual and creative skills.

I’m constantly evolving—not just artistically but also technologically. I’ve been diving into Unreal Engine for virtual production, exploring the integration of projections, video design, and new tools to create immersive environments. Production design is a vast, ever-expanding field, and I’m driven by a desire to stay ahead of the curve, combining traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology.

At the heart of it all, my work is about creating spaces that enhance storytelling. I strive to bring depth, emotion, and metaphor to every design, making it more than just a physical environment. Whether it’s a conceptual theatrical set, a film backdrop, or a digital world, I aim to tell stories that resonate deeply with audiences.

I’m most proud of my adaptability and commitment to growth. From small-town India to the bustling sets of Bollywood, and now to the creative spaces of Hollywood, I’ve embraced every challenge and opportunity. What I want people to know about me and my work is that I’m here to create—not just sets, but experiences. I’m excited about the endless possibilities this industry offers and am eager to collaborate with like-minded creatives to bring even more meaningful stories to life.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and a creative is the endless opportunity for growth and exploration. Every new project presents a unique challenge that forces me to stretch myself—not just creatively but also emotionally and intellectually. It’s a constant journey of learning and unlearning, and it keeps me open to experimentation and new possibilities.

I’ve always loved that this profession is a rollercoaster ride. There are highs that make you feel invincible and lows that teach humility, but in the end, every experience contributes to positive growth. It keeps me grounded in reality while also giving me the freedom to indulge in limitless creativity and imagination. The privilege of bringing abstract ideas to life, of creating something tangible from a spark of imagination, is incredibly fulfilling.

One of the most beautiful aspects of being a creative is the collaboration. Every project introduces me to people with diverse skills, perspectives, and backgrounds. Whether it’s working with a director who has a distinct vision or a team of craftspeople who bring technical expertise, the process of creating something outstanding together is pure magic. I’ve seen firsthand how the power of collective effort can elevate a project to something extraordinary. That moment when everything comes together—a set, a scene, a story—is a dopamine rush like no other.

There’s always an apprehension and excitement before starting a new project. The fear of it going wrong is very real, but it’s that very fear that makes the eventual satisfaction of seeing it come to life even more rewarding. I remember when I worked as the Production Designer for the SCAD feature film Take Two. It was a defining experience, where I was tasked with creating sets that authentically reflected the story while also pushing the boundaries of creativity. The pressure was immense, but the collaborative process—with the director, cinematographer, and other crew members—helped shape a cohesive visual language that brought the story to life. Seeing the final product on the screen, knowing the countless hours and energy poured into every detail, was an indescribable feeling of accomplishment.

Ultimately, being a creative means living in a constant state of curiosity and wonder. It’s not just about making art; it’s about being part of a larger conversation, contributing to stories, and creating experiences that resonate with people. And for me, that’s the greatest reward of all.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

A significant goal driving my creative journey is the desire to keep exploring storytelling across different mediums. Over the years, I’ve worked on films, TV shows, commercials, theatre, and even interactive experiences, and each format has taught me something new about the art of storytelling. This diversity keeps me creatively agile and challenges me to stretch my mental muscles constantly. I never want to feel boxed into one medium or style—growth, for me, lies in experimentation and evolution.

Ultimately, my long-term aspiration is to establish my own studio—a space dedicated to production design and innovation. I envision it as a hub where art meets technology, where we explore new materials, tools, and techniques to push the boundaries of what sets and spaces can do. I want to create environments that aren’t just visually captivating but are meaningful and spark conversations. The aim is to design spaces and objects that don’t just serve the narrative but actively transform how audiences perceive the stories being told.

Another goal that fuels my journey is the desire to work globally. I want to be part of stories that matter—stories that leave a lasting impact and go beyond mere entertainment. As a creative, I feel a responsibility to contribute to narratives that challenge societal norms, foster empathy, and inspire change. At the same time, I want to create art that shifts how people think about production design itself. The role of a set or a space goes far beyond aesthetics—it’s an active participant in the storytelling process, shaping the audience’s emotional and psychological journey.

As someone who’s constantly learning and experimenting, I want to delve deeper into interactive spaces, AR/VR environments, and sustainable design practices. Imagine a future where sets aren’t static but dynamic, where the audience can engage with a story on multiple sensory levels. That’s the kind of work I want to champion—immersive, thought-provoking, and boundary-breaking.

Ultimately, my mission is to bring a sense of purpose to every project I undertake. Whether it’s designing a small stage for an experimental play or creating an expansive world for a feature film, my goal is to craft spaces that resonate with people. I want to leave behind a legacy of design that not only serves the story but elevates it—spaces that inspire, challenge, and stay with the audience long after the credits roll.

Contact Info:

• Website: shubhamrajpal.com
• Instagram: shubhamrajpal
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shubhamrajpalart/