Mr. Avinash Raipally is an Associate Professor in Fashion and Lifestyle Accessory Design at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Hyderabad, with over 18 years of academic, professional and administrative experience. His expertise spans Product Design, Design Research, Design Thinking, Communication Design, Packaging, Visual Merchandising, Retail Experience Design and Design Management. He pursued his education at reputed institutions including Sainik School - Korukonda, NIFT - Hyderabad, Domus Academy - Milan, and Osmania University. He has previously served in leadership and administrative posts as Joint Director, Head of the Department, Regional Industry Coordinator and Unit In-charge of Administration and Establishment at NIFT Hyderabad.

His research interests focus on material culture, design anthropology, indigenous knowledge systems, sustainable design, climate-responsive design and Himalayan communities. His work integrates field-based documentation and interdisciplinary design research, particularly exploring traditional costumes, textiles, crafts, architecture, lifestyles and knowledge systems of isolated Himalayan settlements. He also serves as a Board of Studies Member for the Fashion Design programme at Satavahana University, contributing to academic and curriculum development.

A certified mountaineer and a avid traveller, he undertakes solo , high altitude Himalayan journeys. He is a member of the Indian Mountaineering Foundation and a founding member of the NIFT Hyderabad Adventure Club. He mentors students through experiential learning, outdoor activities, design research, industry engagement and leadership development, while promoting environmental awareness, interdisciplinary collaboration and responsible engagement with communities.