Rohit Bal, one of India's top fashion designers, dies at 63
One of India's top designers, Rohit Bal has been suffering from a heart ailment since last year; died of cardiac arrest
Rohit Bal, one of India’s best-known fashion designers, who has been suffering from a heart ailment since last year, passed away on Friday (November 1) at the age of 63. Known for his impeccable eye for detail and frequent use of traditional Indian motifs, Bal not only revolutionised Indian fashion but also helped redefine the very idea of luxury in the country.
“We mourn the passing of Legendary designer Rohit Bal. He was a founding member of the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI). Known for his unique blend of traditional patterns with modern sensibilities, Bal’s work redefined Indian fashion, and inspired generations. His legacy of artistry, and innovation along with forward thinking will live on in the fashion world. Rest in peace GUDDA. You are a legend,” the FDCI wrote in a post on Instagram.
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A few weeks ago, Bal had returned to the fashion scene with a show at the FDCI's Lakmé Fashion Week, where he showcased his collection ‘Kaaynaat: A Bloom in the Universe’; actor Ananya Panday was his showstopper at the show. Affectionately known as “Gudda” among his friends, Bal was born on May 8, 1961, in Srinagar (Kashmir), which remained central to his creative vision. A history graduate from St. Stephen’s College in New Delhi, Bal also trained at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT).
Bal burst on the fashion scene with a solo debut in 1990. Known for his attention to detail, Bal was one of India's first fashion designers to patent and copyright his designs. He collaborated with several brands, including HiDesign, Titan, Biba. Bal’s designs were worn by global celebrities like Cindy Crawford, Pamela Anderson, Amitabh Bachchan, and Deepika Padukone.
Sunil Sethi, FDCI president, said the designer will be cremated on Saturday. “It’s true that he has passed away. 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 told news agency PTI.
