Fashion icon Rohit Bal dies at 63

New Delhi: Rohit Bal, one of India’s most celebrated fashion designers, passed away on Friday at a hospital in South Delhi following a heart attack. He was 63 years old. The news of his untimely death has sent shockwaves through the fashion industry, as Bal was not just a designer but a legend who redefined Indian couture.

Bal had a long history of cardiac issues, having been admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of a private hospital in Gurugram for similar concerns in December of the previous year.

He had undergone an emergency angioplasty in 2010 after he suffered a heart attack.

A family friend disclosed that Bal has been living with a pacemaker for several years, which started causing issues last year, necessitating his hospitalisation.

However, in December 2023, he released a statement saying that he was healing and expressed gratitude for continued love and prayers from friends and family.

Just last month, he graced the runway at the Lakme Fashion Week X FDCI 2024 grand finale, showcasing his latest collection and demonstrating his enduring passion for fashion.

Sunil Sethi, president of the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), confirmed the heartbreaking news, stating, “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.” Bal was being treated by Dr. Alok Chopra at Aashlok Hospital in Safdarjung Enclave.

Despite the best efforts of doctors, who laboured for two hours to revive him, Bal succumbed to his condition.

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.

Throughout his illustrious career spanning over three decades, Bal emerged as one of India’s most celebrated fashion designers, earning international acclaim for his distinctive fusion of traditional Indian aesthetics with contemporary sophistication. His designs, characterised by intricate embroidery, rich fabrics, and dramatic silhouettes, attracted a devoted following among Bollywood celebrities, socialites, and fashion enthusiasts worldwide.

Known for his exquisite craftsmanship and innovative designs, he will be remembered for his ability to blend traditional Indian aesthetics with contemporary styles. Rohit Bal’s impact on the fashion world was profound, influencing countless designers and earning accolades both nationally and internationally.