Rohit Bal, one of India’s most renowned fashion designers, has died at the age of 63.
A friend of the designer told NDTV that Bal was in the ICU a week before his last show in October. He was discharged and then admitted to a hospital in Delhi on Wednesday, where he died of a cardiac arrest on Friday.
In a post on Instagram, the Fashion Design Council of India recalled the contributions of the fashion icon, who was also known as Gudda.
“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 council wrote.
Born in Srinagar, Bal began his career in 1986 and rose to become one of the biggest names in the Indian fashion industry. He won ‘Designer of the Year’ at the Indian Fashion Awards in 2006 and the Kingfisher Fashion Achievement Awards in 2001. He was also named the Lakme Grand Finale Designer in 2012.
After battling illness, the designer also made a return to the runway at the Lakme Fashion Week X FDCI grand finale last month where he showcased his collection “Kaaynaat: A Bloom in the Universe”. Lakme’s brand ambassador, actor Ananya Panday, walked the ramp as the showstopper in a Rohit Bal signature ensemble.
