While often seen as mere symbols of glamour, vanity vans for some Bollywood A-listers are deeply personal sanctuaries meticulously shaped by their daily routines and functional needs. Esteemed interior designer Vinita Chaitanya, known for her work with top celebrities, has pulled back the curtain on this intimate aspect of stardom, revealing fascinating details about her collaborations.
Deepika Padukone's Vision: A Star with Specificity
Speaking about her long-term professional relationship with Deepika Padukone, Vinita highlighted the actress's hands-on approach. Their partnership began years ago, extending from Deepika's first apartment at Beaumonde in Mumbai to her current office and her lavish new Rs 100-crore quadruplex at Bandra Bandstand. It naturally evolved to include her mobile workspace.
"I've done her home many times. Then I did her van. In fact, two vans," Vinita shared in a conversation. What impressed the designer was Deepika's exceptional clarity about her requirements. "She really got it and wanted it a certain way," Vinita noted, adding that the process was an enlightening dive into an actor's working life.
The experience also educated her on the practical hierarchy of these vehicles. "There's a large van and a smaller van—the smaller one is for closer commutes, while the larger one is used on bigger studio sets," she explained.
A Glimpse into King Khan's Mobile Domain
Her research for Deepika's project led to an unexpected visit. "While researching other vans, I walked into Shah Rukh Khan's van for the first time. They were shooting a film together," Vinita recalled. The contrast between the two stars' spaces was striking.
While Deepika's van was built on very specific functional needs, Shah Rukh Khan's van was described as a haven of comfort. "His van was fabulous—it even had a little gym inside. He's such a cool guy," she remarked, painting a picture of a space designed for relaxation and fitness between takes.
The Designer's Philosophy: Beyond Budgets
Vinita also opened up about her unconventional approach to project finances, admitting that cost calculations are not her forte. "I don't budget—the homeowner does," she stated plainly. She revealed that clients come with a figure they are comfortable with, and if she believes she can deliver within that, she takes on the project.
"Sometimes budgets aren't realistic, honestly, and I feel I may not be able to do my best. I still try," she added. This approach is tailored for a niche clientele. Vinita disclosed that most of her clients are serious art collectors or own sprawling properties, with homes averaging between 15,000 to 30,000 square feet. To maintain quality and focus, she limits herself to only six projects at any given time.
Through these revelations, Vinita Chaitanya not only demystifies the world of celebrity vanity vans but also underscores how these mobile rooms are far more than just glamorous accessories—they are functional, personal extensions of the stars themselves, reflecting their individual personalities and professional demands.
