The demise of ace designer Rohit Bal, who was recently cremated in the national capital following serious health complications, has plunged the world of fashion into mourning. Tributes have been pouring in from all corners of the world, while friends, family, and admirers are moving in to remember the man lovingly called “Gudda.”
Amul India has shared a very emotional obituary on Instagram. The brand took to a black-and-white graphic of Rohit Bal with the quote, “He fashioned India’s style.”
#Amul Topical: A tribute to one of the country’s fashion design icons read the caption of the post by the brand. Underlining the enormity of the impact he had on Indian fashion.
Several big names from the world of fashion and films attended the funeral at the Lodhi Road Crematorium on Saturday. Sunil Sethi, president, FDCI, said: “Rohit Bal was one of India’s most talented and popular fashion designers. He was everybody’s darling. We will miss him so much. He was a national treasure, and we have lost somebody so important.”
Rohit Bal was 63 years old when he died and had struggled with a heart condition for a long time. Having been admitted to a hospital a few days earlier. Social media flooded with tribute messages, as former Miss Universe Sushmita Sen posted an anecdotal picture from a joint fashion show. She writes, “An indomitable spirit and also what a pioneer. Rest in peace #RohitBal.”
“Heartbroken to hear about the demise of Rohit Bal. True artist and visionary. The legacy lives on. May you rest in peace,” shared actor Anil Kapoor. Remembering the exuberance of Bal, veteran actor Anupam Kher also shared on Instagram, “He was flamboyant, colorful, funny, a genius, compassionate. All this and much more- most importantly, a good human being.”
FDCI remembered the works of Bal as the founder member and significantly one of the few designers of his generation who could weave traditional craftsmanship with a modern aesthetic. Their tribute read, “We mourn the passing of Legendary designer Rohit Bal. His legacy of artistry and innovation will live on in the fashion world. Rest in peace, GUDDA.”
Rohit Bal was back on the runway with his collection, “Kaaynaat: A Bloom in the Universe”. At Lakme Fashion Week in October 2024, showcasing his strength after a tough year that had him battling health issues. His recent hospitalization in 2023 saw him pen an emotional message for all his supporters, serving as the best motivation for his discharge.
Rohit Bal’s death has left a void in the Indian fashion landscape, which will remain etched in the memories of many for years to come. A prayer meeting is also scheduled for today in Delhi.
ANI
