Rohit Bal brought Indian couture to global prominence

INDIAN fashion designer Rohit Bal, renowned for blending traditional Indian motifs with modern aesthetics, passed away at 63 following a heart attack on Friday night at a south Delhi hospital.

Known for his intricate use of luxurious fabrics like velvet and brocade, Bal’s designs featured signature flower and peacock motifs, bringing Indian couture to global prominence.

His creations resonated both in India and internationally, where he dressed stars such as Cindy Crawford, Uma Thurman, and Naomi Campbell.

Bal, affectionately called "Gudda" by his peers, had been in declining health in recent years. Despite a major health scare in December, he returned to the spotlight on October 13 at Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI, where he presented his final collection, "Kaaynaat: A Bloom in the Universe."

Struggling to walk, Bal was helped by Bollywood star Ananya Panday, who served as his muse for the event. The crowd cheered as he took a bow, with many sensing it could be his last showcase.

Bal’s legacy extends beyond the catwalk. A history graduate from St. Stephen's College, he blended cultural heritage with high couture, as seen in his work for celebrities like Kareena Kapoor Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, and Sonam Kapoor.

His designs reflected his love for his native Kashmir, often featuring its flora and fauna as central motifs.

As he once stated, "I always stuck to who I am and never did what everybody else was doing." Bal's unique style and dedication to classic, timeless designs solidified his impact on Indian fashion.

His work included high-profile collaborations with brands like the Aditya Birla Group and British Airways. Time magazine named him "Master of Fabric and Fantasy" in 1996, highlighting his influence on fashion both in India and abroad.

Bal’s contributions will continue to inspire future generations, ensuring his place in the history of Indian fashion.