“I am shattered. He was in such high spirits at his last show."
Iconic Indian fashion designer Rohit Bal passed away on November 1, 2024, after a prolonged illness.
The 63-year-old was pronounced dead after cardiac complications.
Known as “Gudda” in the industry, he was remembered by his fans as a “creative genius” and “visionary whose designs defied time”.
Bal made a surprise appearance at Lakme Fashion Week, walking the ramp after unveiling his much-anticipated collection, Kaaynaat: A Bloom in the Universe.
Not only did he walk the ramp, Bal danced with showstopper Ananya Panday.
Rohit Bal earned admiration in Hollywood and Bollywood, designing for celebrities like Uma Thurman, Pamela Anderson, Naomi Campbell, and Cindy Crawford.
Sunil Sethi, chairman of the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), said:
“I am shattered. He was in such high spirits at his last show. He was looking forward to the future. He was ecstatic as he watched his creations walk down the ramp.”
Born in Kashmir in 1961, Bal attended Woodlands House School and Burn Hall School before moving to Delhi.
He graduated from St Stephen’s College with an honours degree in history, later joining his family’s export business.
Bal gained fame in the 90s with his eponymous label, with his first independent collection celebrating Kashmiri heritage.
In a 30-year career, Bal became known for his intricate craftsmanship with the use of lotus and peacock motifs and use of rich fabrics like velvet and brocade. His work drew inspiration from Indian grandeur and royalty.
Bal described himself as a designer who “combines the right mix of history, folklore, village craft, and dying arts to create imaginative and innovative masterpieces for catwalks and fashion talks”.
Paying tribute, Sonam Kapoor said: “Dear Gudda, I hear about your passing on my way to celebrate Diwali in your gorgeous creation that you generously lent to me for the second time.
“I’ve been blessed to have known you and worn you and walked for you multiple times.”
“I hope you are at peace. Always your biggest fan.”
Karan Johar described Bal as a “pioneer and a bonafide legend” and said he was awestruck by his last collection. He said he was a “stunning artist, craftsman, fashion legend”.
“I told myself that I wanted to wear his latest collection on Diwali and requested for some of his stunning pieces, unknowingly last night I wore him and clicked some images and got into my car and then read the heartbreaking news of his passing.”
Rohit Bal was among the few Indian celebrities who openly identified as gay.
In a past TV interview, Bal said he understood the pressures that prevented people from coming out.
He said: “I wish there were more prominent people who were open about such things.
“Personally, I don’t give a flying f**k what people think about me. If anyone wants to judge me, judge me for what I am and what I have achieved and not for whom I am sleeping with.”
His body was brought back to his Delhi residence, where his funeral will take place on November 2.
In recent years, Bal avoided the spotlight due to his health struggles. He has reportedly been suffering from a heart ailment since 2023.
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