“I am constantly looking for ways in which the physical world can manifest as an ethereal canvas that transports us to another dimension of perception and immersion,” says Abhimanyu Chopra, digital artist, audio acoustics specialist, multimedia strategist and founder of Chopra’s Designs. This technologically driven, experimental design studio based in Jaipur and Dubai has made a name for itself through numerous projects in India and abroad. Their design philosophy is that there must be a fundamental connection between the body and the spaces it inhabits.

Coming from a family with a long history in lighting and audio, Chopra honed his passion for the field through a degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from Sheffield University, UK, and work experience at Cirque Du Soleil in Las Vegas, Disney and the Omnia nightclub. He also completed a Master of Science in Acoustics from Salford University, UK, with certificates in Specialized Lighting, Projection and Stage Automation from the Stagecraft Institute of Las Vegas and Theatre Design from HAA in Bangkok, Thailand.

“Through our work with immersive installations, audiovisual performances and three-dimensional data sculptures, we enable people to shape their view of reality. In addition, we often collaborate with education and healthcare systems to create environments with optimal acoustic and lighting solutions, and work for the advancement of urban infrastructure by incorporating city lighting,” he adds.

Some of his notable projects include Soul Festival, Maldives, Playboy Club (Delhi, Jaipur, Dubai), Boudoir Club (Dubai), Al Habtoor Palace (Dubai), BMW, renowned hotels like Radisson, Eros and Ananta Hotels, Mehrangarh Fort (Jodhpur), JNU Hospitals, City and Industrial Development Corporation of Maharashtra (CIDCO) and NSCI Sports Club (Mumbai).

His most recent project was the wedding of Anant and Radhika Ambani in Antilia, for which he created an immersive and meditative artwork in honor of Shrinathji, the eighth incarnation of the god Vishnu. The project was done in collaboration with MELA and used advanced projection mapping to bring the artwork to life. The installation focused on the landscape of Nathdwara and integrated Vedic symbolism with modern technology while honoring the spiritual essence of the idea.

Chopra spoke to Sunday Guardian in an exclusive chat about the Shrinathji installation at the Ambani wedding. Excerpts from an edited interview:

Q: Tell us about the evolution of your design practice over the years.

A. I founded Chopra’s Designs in 2019. Our parent company has been in business for over 50 years. We specialize in technology consulting for acoustics, lighting, projection and kinetic art installations. Our work focuses on merging art with architecture and technology, driven by an innovation-led approach.
My training in lighting, projection and kinetics with world-class designers was instrumental in our approach to creating immersive, technology-based experiences.

Q: How did the Ambani project come about?

A. The wedding planner recommended us to the Ambanis and that’s how we came to work together. The Ambanis wanted us to honor Shrinathji, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, in a way that blended old with new, where tradition and technology meet. They asked us to create something truly special for Anant and Radhika’s wedding at their home in Antilia.

When we suggested making the Shrinathji artwork dynamic, they loved the idea. Nita Ambani’s close guidance and active involvement throughout the project underlined its importance and the family’s reverence for Lord Vishnu.

Inspired by Vedic symbolism, the animated sequences highlight the divine qualities of Shrinathji and create a haunting and meditative atmosphere that exudes a celestial glow. Inspired by the serene landscape of Nathdwara, our design intent was to capture the essence of the holy city in Antilia. The end result was a few installations in Antilia, the most significant of which was the projection mapping of digital artwork onto the huge Shrinathji artwork in the ballroom. This project showcased our ability to blend traditional art with cutting edge technology. We were also supported in our efforts by the team at MELA by Surabhi Bhowmick, who curated the event.

Q. How long did the project take to complete?

A. The project required approximately 60 days for planning and developing the concept, creating the content and installations, and an additional two to three days for the execution of each installation. Despite the tight execution schedule and the size of the installations, we were able to complete everything within the given time frame, thanks to our dedication and a little divine grace.

Q: What challenges did you face along the way?

A. One of the biggest challenges was the tight schedule for executing such a large installation, which was exacerbated by back-to-back events. It required careful planning and precise coordination to ensure that everything came together smoothly in just a few days. Although the technical challenges were enormous, we were able to reflect the visionary spirit of the Ambani family and combine tradition with modernity in this masterpiece.

I would like to highlight our commitment to innovation and our unique approach of combining art forms with modern technology. Our team worked tirelessly and tried everything until it was perfect. Every little detail of the Shrinathji artwork for the Ambani wedding was carefully studied to understand its spiritual meaning and beauty.

Q: Do you have any other exciting projects in the pipeline?

A. We have many exciting projects in the pipeline. We are currently developing innovative technologies and installations in lighting and acoustics across India and the Middle East. These upcoming ventures will push the boundaries of the integration of art, architecture and technology.

Noor Anand Chawla writes lifestyle articles for various publications and her blog www.nooranandchawla.com