Bollywood actress Sonam Kapoor delivered an emotional tribute to the late fashion designer Rohit Bal during the Blenders Pride X FDCI Fashion Tour 2025. The event, which took place on February 1 at Le Meridien in Gurugram, was not merely another fashion show; it served as a poignant celebration of Bal's life and legacy, reverberated through the couture showcased on the runway.
Sonam, renowned for her stylish flair, took to the ramp adorned in a stunning ivory outfit created by Bal himself. This regal attire, heavily embellished and featuring ornate embroidery, reflected the unmatched craftsmanship and the timeless essence of Bal's designs. The atmosphere was filled with nostalgia as industry veterans, models, and fashion enthusiasts gathered to honor the remarkable contributions of the designer, who passed away at 63 due to cardiac issues on November 1, 2024.
Videos captured during the event circulated on social media, showing Sonam breaking down as she entered the stage, greeting the audience with folded hands. Her attire included a white outfit layered under a heavily embellished ivory jacket, complemented by retro-style red flowers adorning her hair. The event organized not just as a runway show but as a comprehensive tribute to Rohit Bal featured several prominent figures from the fashion world. Notable guests included filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar, fashion designer JJ Valaya, actors Eesha Gupta, Rahul Dev, and Mugdha Godse—all of whom walked the ramp, adding to the emotional tribute.
The evening kicked off with celebratory motifs, creatively spotlighting Bal’s artistry and influencing the definition of Indian couture. Over 100 of Bal’s closest colleagues from fashion, Bollywood, and the media united on the runway, sharing heartfelt stories and evoking the designer's vibrant spirit. According to Kartik Mohindra, CMO of Pernod Ricard India, "This celebration of Rohit Bal’s legacy was one for the ages. It reflected our long-standing commitment to shining the spotlight on the iconic voices shaping Indian fashion."
Sonam Kapoor expressed her sentiments, stating, "It has always been an honor to be Rohit’s muse, donning his extraordinary creations for many years. Being part of this unique celebration of his legacy at Blenders Pride Fashion Tour has been something I will always cherish." She emphasized her strong connection to Bal’s creations and the significant impact he had on her life.
The tribute presentation honored Bal not just for his designs but for his unique vision and the cultural narratives woven through his work. The evening was thoughtfully curated, featuring elaborate decor inspired by Bal’s signature motifs, curated dishes reflecting Kashmir's culinary rich heritage by celebrated chef Suvir Saran, and soulful music performed by Vibha Saraf and Deveshi Sahgal. Each facet of the event was crafted to align with the artistic genius of Bal.
Sunil Sethi, Chairman of the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), shared his pride in collaborating with the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour, declaring, "FDCI couldn’t have been prouder to partner with Blenders Pride Fashion Tour, creating the most awe-inspiring celebration of Rohit Bal, beautifully capturing his legacy." This tribute not only honored the memory of Rohit Bal but also positioned his artistic footprints firmly within the contemporary fashion narrative, illustrating the enduring relevance of his style.
After the heartfelt homage, conversation swayed to the controversy surrounding Bal’s will, which has generated tensions among close friends and family. Sunil Sethi mentioned, "We want this process to be transparent and are confident the will includes all beneficiaries." This controversy reflects the complex personal relationships and disputes arising following Bal's unexpected demise, underscoring the deep impact he had on so many lives.
Finally, the night culminated with promises of future events, as the Fashion Tour is set to head to Chandigarh on February 8, 2025, featuring designer Kanika Goyal and Bollywood celebrity Jacqueline Fernandez. The tribute showcased how Rohit Bal's legacy would continue to inspire and shape the fashion world for years to come, with each participant leaving with memories etched and emotions stirred by the celebration of his extraordinary life.
Sonam Kapoor's tribute to Rohit Bal at the Blenders Pride X FDCI Fashion Tour was more than just personal homage; it encapsulated the heartfelt admiration of the fashion industry for one of its brightest stars, ensuring his legacy will remain relevant as new generations engage with the art of couture.