Veteran Designer James Ferreira Says Old Bollywood Stars Never Asked for Free Outfits: ‘People Were So Well-Mannered’

Mumbai: Veteran fashion designer James Ferreira has stirred a conversation about changing celebrity culture in Bollywood after reflecting on his experiences working with actors across several decades. The designer, known for dressing some of the biggest stars of the 1980s and 1990s, said the industry's older generation carried themselves with far greater humility and professionalism than many contemporary celebrities.

Speaking about his years in the fashion and film industries, Ferreira recalled that actors from Bollywood's earlier era rarely expected special favours from designers. According to him, stars paid for what they wore and did not approach designers seeking free clothing in exchange for publicity or visibility.

“People were so well-mannered,” Ferreira said while contrasting the behaviour of veteran actors with that of today's celebrity ecosystem. His comments come amid ongoing discussions about the increasing influence of stylists, brand endorsements and social media-driven image management in the entertainment business.

The designer, who began his career in the 1970s and went on to become one of India's most recognizable fashion names, has worked with numerous film personalities throughout his career. Ferreira has often spoken about a time when professional relationships between designers and actors were built more on mutual respect than commercial arrangements.

His remarks also touch upon a larger transformation within Bollywood. Over the years, fashion has become deeply intertwined with celebrity branding. Industry reports have previously noted that many actors source outfits, accessories and jewellery from brands and designers, who in turn benefit from the publicity generated by celebrity appearances.

Ferreira suggested that the culture was markedly different when he first entered the industry. According to him, senior actors focused primarily on their work and maintained a sense of decorum that extended to their dealings with designers, producers and the media. The designer indicated that there was less emphasis on image-building and fewer expectations of complimentary products or services.

The comments have resonated with many social media users who often compare the perceived simplicity of earlier Bollywood generations with the highly managed celebrity culture of today. Discussions about the growing role of public relations teams, stylists and brand collaborations have become increasingly common in recent years.

Ferreira's observations add to a broader debate within the entertainment industry about whether the rise of social media and influencer culture has altered the relationship between celebrities and the businesses that support them. While the fashion industry continues to benefit from high-profile collaborations, Ferreira's recollections offer a glimpse into a period when professional etiquette, rather than promotional value, often defined those relationships.

Having witnessed Bollywood's evolution firsthand, the designer's remarks serve as a reminder of how dramatically celebrity culture has changed over the decades. Whether one agrees with his assessment or not, his comments have reignited discussions about professionalism, privilege and the changing dynamics between stars and the fashion world.