Explore the visionary journey of Dr. Prasad Appa Tarkar, an architect, sculptor, art director, and filmmaker who has left an indelible mark across multiple creative disciplines. From revolutionizing outdoor advertising to making impactful films and winning prestigious awards, discover how Prasad’s innovative spirit and artistic excellence continue to inspire and transform the world of art and cinema.
In the realm of creative arts, few individuals manage to leave a lasting impact across multiple disciplines. Dr. Prasad Appa Tarkar stands as a testament to such a phenomenon. An architect, sculptor, art director, and filmmaker, Tarkar has successfully etched his presence in every field he touched, continuing to aspire and inspire with his boundless creativity.
The Roots of an Artist
The foundation of Prasad Tarkar’s illustrious career was laid by his father, the renowned artist Appa Sahadeo Tarkar. Appa Tarkar was a pioneer in the world of art direction, especially known for his novel concept of moving mannequins. His influence on Prasad was profound, imparting not just skills but a profound passion for the arts. Growing up under the guidance of such a visionary artist, Prasad absorbed the essence of creativity and innovation from an early age. This heritage of creativity, combined with a drive for innovation, set the stage for Prasad’s future endeavors.
Inception of Vedas: The Artistic Sanctuary
In 2001, Prasad Tarkar founded “Vedas,” an art company that began with humble origins, crafting small and large religious idols. However, under Prasad’s visionary leadership, Vedas quickly expanded its horizons. The company ventured into art direction for national events and TV serials, marking its territory in the competitive world of art and entertainment. Vedas’s success in these areas was a testament to Prasad’s ability to blend traditional artistry with modern demands.
One of the most notable early projects was the redesign of the crematorium at Oshiwara. This project was a significant departure from conventional art direction, but Prasad saw it as an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. The transformation from a place of sorrow to a serene, almost magical, starting point for the soul’s onward journey was met with widespread acclaim. This innovative project earned Prasad Tarkar the prestigious Rashtrapati Puraskar (President’s Award) from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam in 2006, a recognition that significantly boosted his career. The acclaim brought by this project was not just about aesthetics; it was about the profound emotional and spiritual impact that thoughtful design could achieve.
Pioneering Innovations in Outdoor Advertising
Not one to rest on his laurels, Prasad Tarkar took on new challenges in the field of outdoor advertising. Vedas introduced groundbreaking concepts, including 3-D larger-than-life moving figures that captivated audiences and set new standards in the industry. Iconic campaigns like the Guitar Strumming Fido-Dido for 7-Up, the gigantic Hindustan Times Candle, and the live hoarding of Zapak showcased the team’s creativity and technical prowess. These projects brought Vedas numerous accolades, including 2 International Awards and 52 State Awards.
Prasad’s approach to outdoor advertising was revolutionary. He saw it as a canvas for dynamic storytelling, a way to engage audiences in a manner that traditional billboards could not. The Guitar Strumming Fido-Dido, for instance, wasn’t just an advertisement; it was a spectacle that turned heads and created buzz. This ability to transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences became a hallmark of Prasad’s work.
Kingdom of Films: A New Frontier
With a solid foundation in art direction and advertising, Prasad Tarkar’s next venture was into the world of cinema. He established “Kingdom of Films,” a production house aimed at creating films with a distinctive artistic touch. His debut Marathi film, the romantic comedy “Ek Hoti Rani,” released on 19th February 2016, marked the beginning of a promising journey in filmmaking.
The success of “Ek Hoti Rani” paved the way for future projects, including the anticipated “Janmantar 3D.” Prasad’s ability to seamlessly blend his skills in sculpture, architecture, and art direction into his films has set him apart as a filmmaker with a unique vision. His films are not just visual stories; they are immersive experiences that reflect his deep understanding of visual arts and narrative structure.
Triumphs in Music and Advertising Films
Prasad Tarkar’s creative endeavors are not confined to traditional film and advertising. His music video “Pappi De Parula” became a superhit, adding another feather to his cap. The video was a vibrant celebration of culture and music, showcasing Prasad’s ability to connect with diverse audiences. From 2022, he expanded into advertising films, working with top Bollywood celebrities. Notable projects include ad-films for Shoppers Stop with Yami Gautam and Sanya Malhotra, Ghyan Ghee and Saffola with Kareena Kapoor, and a series of successful campaigns featuring stars like Janhvi Kapoor, Rakul Preet Singh, and Rashmika Mandana.
One of the standout achievements in this period was the Best Advertising Award 2023 (IAA) for the MG Motor India ad “Ghar Ki Laxmi” and the Golden Impact Award 2023 for Shoppers Stop’s “We-time wali Diwali.” These accolades underscore Prasad’s knack for creating compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. His work in advertising films demonstrates his versatility and ability to adapt to different formats while maintaining a high standard of creativity and innovation.
Upcoming Ventures and Legacy
Looking ahead, Prasad Tarkar has ambitious projects in the pipeline. His upcoming film “Day Zero” tackles the global drought problem, a topic of immense significance in today’s world. This project highlights Prasad’s commitment to using his platform to address critical issues and raise awareness through compelling storytelling. Another highly anticipated project is a big-budget Bollywood commercial movie, the biopic of Encounter Specialist Daya Nayak. These projects promise to showcase Prasad’s versatility and commitment to addressing important societal issues through his art.
Additionally, Prasad is working on a music video titled “Hum Gaya Nahi Zinda Hai,” a tribute to Swami Samarth. This project, featuring the soulful voice of Shankar Mahadevan, aims to convey a message of resilience and spiritual awakening. The song, presented by Rudransh Entertainment, is expected to be a powerful addition to Prasad’s impressive portfolio.
The Philosophy of a Visionary
Prasad Tarkar’s journey is not just about creative achievements; it is also about a profound philosophy of life. He believes that every skill and lesson learned in childhood contributes to one’s success. His father, Appa Tarkar, instilled in him a love for sculpture and art, while his mother, Pratibha Appa Tarkar, nurtured his literary talents. This blend of artistic and intellectual heritage has been the cornerstone of Prasad’s multifaceted career.
Prasad emphasizes the importance of giving back to society, particularly in supporting the new generation of artists and innovators. He advocates for using one’s success to make a positive impact, embodying the belief that reaching the peak of success comes with a responsibility to help others. This philosophy is reflected in his various initiatives aimed at mentoring young artists and providing them with opportunities to grow and thrive.
The Trendsetter of the Decade
Dr. Prasad Appa Tarkar stands as a visionary filmmaker, innovative architect, and a trendsetter of this decade. His journey from sculpting idols to winning national and international awards, from revolutionizing outdoor advertising to making impactful films, is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence. An artist who worships art as his religion, Prasad continues to inspire with his creativity, innovation, and dedication to making a difference.
As he forges ahead with new projects and continues to push the boundaries of art and architecture, Prasad Tarkar remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring artists and creators worldwide. His story is not just about success; it is about the enduring power of passion, innovation, and the unwavering belief in the transformative power of art. Prasad’s legacy is one of creativity and compassion, a reminder that true success lies in the ability to touch lives and create lasting impressions through one’s work.
