Iconic fashion designer Rohit Bal dies of cardiac arrest at 63
Iconic fashion designer Rohit Bal died of a cardiac arrest on Friday, leaving a deep void in the Indian fashion industry. He was 63.
The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) shared the news of Bal's demise on its official Instagram handle.
"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," the post read.
"It is a huge loss," said Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) president Sunil Sethi, adding that Bal led from the front and his clothing withstood the test of time like he himself.
Born in Srinagar, Bal's family was forced to move out of Kashmir due to the Islamist insurgency in the 1970s.
After his family moved to New Delhi, he completed his education at the Delhi Public School in Mathura Road and later graduated in History from St. Stephen's College. He then went on to study fashion at the National Institute of Fashion Technology.
RIP Rohit Bal. Gone too soon.
— vir sanghvi (@virsanghvi) November 1, 2024
A king among designers. A prince among men. He had been famous for over three decades. But he never stopped being a regular guy, always ready with a laugh,always a friend first & a creative genius second.
The world is a poorer place without him pic.twitter.com/TIhiaHyUbt
Rohit Bal started his career with his brother Rajiv Bal in Delhi in 1986 and started his first independent collection in 1990.
He was also chosen by the Khadi Gram Udyog, the largest handloom textile operation in Panchkula, to work with them.
Bal also designed costumes for the popular Indian game show Kaun Banega Crorepati.
His flagship stores are located in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and Chennai.
What a terrible 24 hours. Friend of nearly five decades, school mate, fashion Mogul , Rohit Bal passes away. Gudda was bright and brilliant as a classmate in Burn Hall, Srinagar . Moved to Delhi and then onto the limelight of the celebrity world. Very very sad to see him go!!… pic.twitter.com/YjqkDP6NaP
— Amitabh Mattoo (@amitabhmattoo) November 1, 2024
Bal is best known for having used lotus and peacock motifs. He frequently employed rich fabrics like velvet, brocade and his designs were elaborate and inspired by Indian grandeur and royalty.
This is a fervent appeal to media friends of our pioneering artist and designer beyond compare. His family needs your support RIGHT NOW!! Before the hyenas move in. Please help his genuine friends and admirers to give him a dignified farewell.@rohitbal_ pic.twitter.com/zVxuu0qSUV
— Shobhaa De (@DeShobhaa) November 1, 2024
The designer made a comeback at the Lakme Fashion Week grand finale last month after battling illness where he showcased his collection "Kaaynaat: A Bloom in the Universe".
Actor Ananya Panday walked the ramp as the showstopper for the show donning a Rohit Bal signature ensemble.
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