Indian fashion icon Rohit Bal, affectionately known as “Gudda,” passed away at 63 on November 1, 2024, in a South Delhi hospital after suffering a heart attack. Bal, famous for his flamboyant yet elegant style, helped shape Indian fashion internationally, designing for both Bollywood and Hollywood celebrities, including Uma Thurman, Cindy Crawford, and Deepika Padukone.
Bal’s recent return to the runway was an emotional one. On October 13, he appeared frail yet determined at the Lakme Fashion Week finale in Delhi, where he showcased his collection “Kaaynaat: A Bloom In The Universe.” The show felt like a farewell, with showstopper Ananya Pandey presenting him with a rose on stage, leaving the audience moved and teary-eyed.
Bal’s sudden passing has deeply affected his friends and admirers in the fashion and entertainment worlds. Fashion Development Council of India (FDCI) President Sunil Sethi confirmed the news, sharing that despite doctors’ best efforts, they couldn’t revive him. Known for his ability to merge traditional Indian motifs with modern elegance, Bal’s work redefined Indian fashion and earned him a place among the industry’s legends.
Tributes poured in from celebrities, with filmmaker Karan Johar expressing how he wore Bal’s designs on Diwali night, unknowingly just hours before learning of his passing. Sonam Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, and Sidharth Malhotra took to social media, recalling their memories with Bal and his influence on their lives. In an Instagram post, the FDCI remembered Bal as a founding member who inspired generations with his artistry and innovation.
Despite health struggles over the years—including heart issues and pancreatitis—Bal remained dedicated to his craft. Bal often drew inspiration from his Kashmiri roots, infusing his designs with motifs of roses and lotuses, symbolizing his connection to his homeland. His loss marks the end of an era, leaving behind a powerful legacy that forever altered the landscape of Indian fashion.
Image Courtesy: Instagram-Rohit Bal
