Renowned Indian Designer Rohit Bal Passes Away at 63
New Delhi: Rohit Bal, the acclaimed Indian fashion designer, has passed away at the age of 63, leaving behind a legacy that transformed Indian fashion. His death, reportedly due to cardiac arrest and heart failure, has deeply saddened the fashion world and beyond.
The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), a body Rohit Bal helped establish, expressed its profound sorrow with a heartfelt tribute to the iconic designer, fondly called “Gudda.” Through a touching post on Instagram, the FDCI honored his remarkable influence on the fashion world.In 2012, he was celebrated as the designer for the Lakmé Grand Finale.His unique ability to blend India’s rich traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design revolutionized the fashion industry and inspired generations of designers. His visionary legacy will continue to shape the future of fashion.
FDCI President Sunil Sethi confirmed the passing of Bal and announced that his cremation would take place the next day. “Rohit has indeed passed away from cardiac arrest and heart failure. His loss has left us all in shock. We are currently making arrangements for his cremation,” Sethi stated in a message to PTI.
Born in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, in 1961, Bal began his career in 1986 and soon became one of the most influential figures in Indian fashion. His innovative creations earned him numerous accolades, including the ‘Designer of the Year’ award at the Indian Fashion Awards in 2006 and the Kingfisher Fashion Achievement Award in 2001.In 2012, he was recognized as the designer for the Lakmé Grand Finale.
After facing health challenges, Bal made an inspiring return to the runway at the Lakmé Fashion Week X FDCI grand finale, where he unveiled his collection “Kaaynaat: A Bloom in the Universe.” The show was graced by actress Ananya Panday, who served as the showstopper in one of his signature designs.
Gautam Singhania, Chairman of the Raymond Group, expressed a heartfelt and emotional farewell to his close friend, recalling the happiness and warmth that Bal radiated to everyone around him. With a heavy heart, I bid farewell to an exceptional friend. You brought light, laughter, and warmth to everyone around you. Every moment shared with you is a cherished memory I will hold dear. You will be deeply missed, but your spirit will live on in all of us forever.Rest in peace, my dear friend,” Singhania shared on X (formerly Twitter).
Veteran journalist Vir Sanghvi also reflected on Bal’s immense legacy, stating, “RIP Rohit Bal. A master of design and a noble soul among people. Famous for over three decades, he remained grounded, always quick with a laugh, prioritizing friendship over fame. The world is poorer without him.” Sanghvi’s words captured both Bal’s creative brilliance and his warmth as a person.
Rohit Bal’s contributions to the fashion world go far beyond his collections. His mastery of blending traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary global trends made him a cultural ambassador for Indian fashion. His work continues to inspire future generations, and his influence will live on in the designs he created and the lives he touched.
