The Indian fashion world is grieving the loss of its beloved icon, Rohit Bal, who passed away at the age of 63 due to cardiac complications. Known for his unique ability to meld traditional Indian aesthetics with modern design sensibilities, Bal's influence stretched from Bollywood to Hollywood, dressing celebrity clients and dignitaries alike.
Born on November 8, 1961, in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, Rohit Bal was more than just a designer; he was a visionary who saw fashion as art. His early education took place at Woodlands House School and later at Burn Hall School. Afterward, he pursued history at St. Stephen's College, New Delhi, finally stepping away from his family's export business to embrace his true calling.
Bal began his career at the age of 25 with Orchid Overseas, but his breakout moment came four years later when he launched his first independent collection—one deeply inspired by his Kashmiri heritage. His designs were characterized by rich fabrics, opulent motifs, and elaborate embroidery, often featuring themes reminiscent of India's royal past.
His talents were not just confined to the Indian subcontinent; Time magazine once recognized him as India's "Master of Fabric and Fantasy." His accolades continued with winning the “Designer of the Year” award at the Kingfisher Fashion Achievement Awards multiple times, and the prestigious recognition of being the Grand Finale Designer at major fashion weeks.
Even as he elevated his fashion empire by opening flagship stores across all major Indian cities, Bal’s commitment to traditional crafts and techniques shone through. He passionately referred to his work as combining the right blend of history, folklore, and village crafts to create exquisite pieces meant for fashion talks and runway showcases.
His recent collection named “Kaaynaat: A Bloom in the Universe” was unveiled just weeks before his passing at the FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week. Bal made his grand comeback on the runway, sharing the catwalk with actress Ananya Panday, delighting observers with his exuberance as he showcased creations vivid with floral motifs and nature’s beauty.
Although health complications plagued his life, including undergoing angioplasty seven years prior and hospitalization last year for heart issues, Bal's passion for design never wavered. He spoke fondly of his craft, asserting, “I believe anything you do from your heart and soul will always stay relevant. I am comfortable being classic, elegant, and timeless.”
His contributions extended beyond his own collections; Bal had collaborated with brands like Biba and even made his mark on television by designing costumes for the Indian version of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” His unique attire graced numerous film stars, including the likes of Deepika Padukone, Sonam Kapoor, and Aishwarya Rai, and starred prominently at red-carpet events and award shows.
The shocked reactions to his passing echo the love and admiration he garnered from friends, colleagues, and fans alike. Sunil Sethi, chairman of the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), expressed his disbelief: "I am shattered. He was so elated at his last show and was full of energy, leaving behind inspiring designs." The FDCI also remarked on their social media saying, “We mourn the passing of legendary designer Rohit Bal. His work redefined Indian fashion, inspiring generations.”
Remembered by many as “Gudda,” and regarded as ‘a king among designers,’ Bal's impact on fashion will be long remembered. One of Bal's closest friends and fashion enthusiasts, actress Sonam Kapoor, paid tribute, saying, “I’ve been blessed to have known you and walked for you multiple times. I hope you are at peace.”
The industry also recalled Bal's frankness about his identity as one of the few openly gay Indian designers. He shared his desire for more public figures to embrace openness, highlighting, "Personally, I don’t give a flying f**k what people think about me." He showcased his authenticity and creative spirit till the very end.
While his mortal remains were returned to Delhi to be surrounded by friends and family, it is evident Rohit Bal will continue to live on through the rich textures and vivid imaginations woven within his designs; each piece forever encapsulating his artistic legacy. The world of fashion, both locally and globally, has lost not just a designer, but an artist whose creations transcended mere clothing—it told stories, celebrated culture, and defined elegance.
Rohit Bal’s legacy is woven deep within the fabric of Indian fashion history, and as tributes pour in from all corners of the industry, his influence and artistry will undoubtedly live on.