Wendell Rodricks death: Condolences pour in as fashion designer dies at his Goa home

Internationally-acclaimed fashion designer Wendell Rodricks died at his home in Colvale village in Goa on Wednesday evening at the age of 59.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (Mapusa) Gajanan Prabhudesai said information about Mr Rodricks' death was received around 6.30 pm and a team was immediately sent to his residence.

He said Mr Rodricks died after collapsing at his residence, adding the cause of death is yet to be ascertained.

A Padma Shri award-winning designer, who is known for infusing modern aesthetics with traditional Goan influences, Mr Rodricks was also an author, environmentalist and a gay rights activist.

Born in Mumbai, Mr Rodricks studied fashion designing in the US and France from 1986 to 1988. He is often credited for pioneering the concept of "resort wear" when it was not a popular idea in India.

He worked on the planning of the first ever Lakme India Fashion Week and often showcased his collections at these fashion weeks.

In 2010, he revived the weaving of the traditional Goan Kunbi Sari and showcased the design at the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week.

Goa Health Minister Vishwajit Rane was among the first to tweet about Mr Rodricks' death.

"Deeply saddened to hear about the sudden demise of my very good friend and designer, Wendell Rodricks. His excellency in his work and skills are irreplaceable and shall always be cherished. We will truly miss him. My heartfelt condolences to his family & dear ones," he posted.