Tollywood star Ram Charan and his wife Upasana graced the 95th Academy Awards in Los Angeles with their presence. ‘Naatu Naatu’ song from ‘RRR’ won the prestigious Oscar Award for Best Original Song, thereby making India proud on the international podium. The power couple at the event caught everyone’s attention for their on-point fashion statement reflecting the Indian culture on the global stage.
Not to forget, their sleek and elegant looks at the Oscars presentation and the Vanity Fair Oscar Party left everyone in awe. Thanks to their makeup artist Sandeep Molugu aka Sandy Artist, who has always made the ‘RRR’ star look presentable on different occasions. This time, it was for the Oscars, and Sandy Artist did the hair and makeup for Ram Charan and Upasana for the historic event.
For all those who are not aware, having worked with Bollywood’s biggest names, Sandy Artist feels privileged to work with Ram Charan for Oscars 2023. In a chat with Outlook, the celebrity makeup artist revealed about how he planned the looks for Ram Charan and Upasana, and shared his excitement on getting to attend the 95th Academy Awards.
Excerpts from the interview:
What was your reaction when you learned you would be attending Oscars 2023?
Oscars, the word is enough to give goosebumps. I was on the top of the world when I got to know that ‘Naatu Naatu’ song was nominated for Best Original Song at the Oscars. I was overwhelmed as I always saw the Oscar's presentation ceremony on television. Though I didn’t attend the ceremony, we were equally overjoyed by watching it live from the vanity. I am grateful to choose a profession which takes me to places and allows me to cherish memories for a lifetime.
How was it like doing makeup for Ram Charan and Upasana at Oscars 2023?
Honestly, it has always been a pleasure to work with Ram Charan and Upasana. While I have worked for different events across the globe, the most memorable and best work would be the Oscars 2023. Both Ram Charan and his wife Upasana kept their fashion rooted in Indian culture. Hence, I ensured that their makeup reflects their style statement.
How was your experience at Oscars 2023, and how different was it from the past events?
I have attended the biggest events as a celebrity makeup artist. Every event that I got to witness was different in its way. When you know it is the Oscars, it is an altogether different ballgame. Besides the bigwigs from Indian cinema, there were influential personalities from Hollywood and other film industries. At the event, I got to interact not only with notable personalities but also with well-known makeup artists and fashion stylists who have been in the industry for years.
How was the environment there after the big win at the 95th Academy Awards?
I would say more than being proud, it was an emotional moment for everyone. Winning an Oscar is not a cakewalk. I would say the big win is not only for the makers, but it is India’s victory on the global stage. I felt grateful to witness the victorious moment and be a part of the celebration.
Do you think you have made it big as a celebrity makeup artist?
Haha! I don’t know how to react to it. But yes, I feel that I have come a long way in my career. I earlier worked in a MNC run by Upasana’s family as a voice coach. I quit the job and pursued my dream to become a makeup artist. Upasana and Ram discovered my talent, and today here I am. I have surely made a mark in the industry and choosing makeup as a profession was perhaps the best decision of my life. I love the way Ram and Upasana have allowed me to bring creative liberty which has helped me reach newer heights in my career.
