The Indian fashion industry has lost one of its brightest stars, as celebrated designer Rohit Bal passed away on Friday, November 1. The legendary designer, aged just 63, succumbed to a heart ailment, a struggle he had been dealing with since last year. His passing marks not just the end of a storied career but also an era that redefined Indian couture with grace, elegance, and a touch of rebellion.
Known as a trendsetter, Bal was revered for his ability to seamlessly blend traditional Indian aesthetics with contemporary sensibilities, pushing boundaries and setting new standards in fashion. Often referred to as “Gudda” by his friends, he embodied India’s rich cultural heritage while still crafting designs that resonated with global fashion trends. Rohit Bal was more than just a designer—he was an artist whose canvas was fabric, and his legacy transcends the boundaries of conventional fashion.
After a hiatus from the fashion scene due to health concerns, Bal made a triumphant return to the runway only a few weeks ago at the Lakme Fashion Week X Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) 2024 grand finale. Despite his frail health, his return was nothing short of spectacular. At Delhi’s prestigious Imperial Hotel, Bal presented his latest collection, “Kaaynaat: A Bloom In The Universe.” It showcased opulence and ethereal beauty, drawing inspiration from the universe and nature’s blooms, capturing the essence of Bal’s design philosophy.
As the audience watched the iconic designer take to the ramp, emotions ran high—many were moved to tears at the sight of Bal, who, despite his physical limitations, showcased his dedication and passion for fashion. Actor Ananya Pandey, the show-stopper for the event, added to the poignancy of the moment as she presented a rose to Bal after the show.
The event, held on October 13, was a bittersweet reminder of the designer’s enduring legacy and the challenges he had faced recently. Tragically, shortly after the show, Bal was admitted to Aashlok Hospital in Safdarjung Enclave, where he was treated by Dr. Alok Chopra. On Friday, November 1, Bal suffered a cardiac arrest. Despite the medical team’s best efforts, he could not be revived, leaving the fashion fraternity and his admirers across the globe in mourning.
FDCI president Sunil Sethi expressed his heartbreak at Bal’s passing, calling him a legend whose contributions to fashion would forever be remembered. “He had a cardiac arrest… heart failure. Rohit was a legend; we are completely shaken right now. We are trying to work out details for the cremation tomorrow,” Sethi shared. Bal had previously been admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of a private hospital in Gurugram in December last year due to cardiac complications, a testament to the health challenges he had been facing over the past few years.
Bal’s death truly marks the end of an era. He was not just a designer; he was a visionary who carved a niche for himself with his distinctive and innovative designs. Throughout his illustrious career, which spanned more than three decades, he dressed some of the most well-known names in Hollywood, including Uma Thurman, Cindy Crawford, and Naomi Campbell.
His designs also found favour with Bollywood celebrities, with stars like Deepika Padukone, Arjun Rampal, and others often seen sporting his creations. His impact on Indian fashion was profound, and he was one of the founding members of the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), an organization that paid tribute to him on its official Instagram handle.
Bal was once hailed as “India’s Master of Fabric and Fantasy” by Time Magazine, a title that perfectly encapsulated his genius. His roots in Kashmir remained an intrinsic part of his identity, and it was evident in his work. His designs frequently featured motifs inspired by his homeland, such as roses and lotuses, reflecting the natural beauty of the Valley.
“I always stuck to who I am and never did what everybody else was doing. I have a very strong and focused design philosophy, and I adhere to that. I believe anything you do from your heart and soul will always stay relevant. I am comfortable in being classic, elegant, and timeless, and it has contributed a lot to my brand and career as a designer,” Bal said in an interview with PTI in 2019.
Bal’s passing elicited an outpouring of grief from his peers, celebrities, and admirers. Actor Sonam Kapoor took to her Instagram Stories to share her sorrow. She recalled wearing Bal’s creations on numerous occasions and spoke of the deep connection she felt with him. “Dear Gudda, I hear about your passing on my way to celebrate Diwali in your gorgeous creation that you generously lent to me for the second time… I hope you are at peace. Always your biggest fan,” she wrote, her message resonating with many who had admired Bal’s work over the years.
Kareena Kapoor and Sidharth Malhotra were also among the celebrities who expressed their shock and sorrow at the sudden loss. Filmmaker Onir penned an emotional note on social media, reflecting on Bal’s larger-than-life persona and his lasting contributions to the world of fashion. “He made his grand exit at the LFW a few days back. A huge loss for the fashion industry and his friends. What a flamboyant life and body of work. No one can bring to the extravaganza that unique elegance and beauty that he gifted fashion,” Onir wrote.
Singer Shibani Kashyap echoed similar sentiments, describing Bal as a “visionary” whose influence on the fashion world was profound. She highlighted how his designs transcended time, setting new standards of elegance and beauty. “You will be deeply missed, but your spirit and the beauty you created will live on forever,” she added.
Born in 1961 in Srinagar, Rohit Bal grew up amidst the picturesque landscapes of Kashmir, which served as a lifelong source of inspiration for him. He went on to graduate from St Stephen’s College with a degree in History. His foray into the world of fashion was not immediate; he initially worked with his brother’s export company before launching his label in 1990. His early focus was on traditional designer menswear, which quickly gained attention for its intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail. Over time, Bal expanded his repertoire to include womenswear, bridal couture, and prêt lines, each marked by his signature aesthetic that celebrated opulence and artistry.
Bal’s design philosophy was deeply personal, and he often drew on his experiences, his roots, and his emotions to create collections that were not just garments but stories. “The Valley offers so much inspiration, and I have always picked up something from the flora, which is very exclusive to Kashmir. There are so many beautiful landscapes and mountains. But a lot depends on the medium you are expressing your feelings through,” Bal once said, highlighting the deep connection between his work and his homeland.
Rohit Bal’s passing is a significant loss to the fashion industry, both in India and internationally. He was a pioneer who redefined Indian couture, challenging norms and creating designs that were at once timeless and avant-garde. His influence extended beyond the runway, touching the lives of countless fashion enthusiasts, celebrities, and aspiring designers. Bal’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of designers to come, reminding them of the power of creativity, authenticity, and passion. As the fashion world mourns the loss of a true icon, it also celebrates the indelible mark Rohit Bal has left on the industry—a legacy of beauty, innovation, and an undying love for fashion.