The world of fashion has lost one of its brightest stars. Rohit Bal, the designer who brought Indian heritage to life through luxurious fabrics and intricate designs, passed away at 63. Known as much for his charisma as for his artistry, Bal was more than just a fashion designer; he was a storyteller, a visionary, and a proud representative of India’s rich cultural tapestry.

For those who have had the privilege of experiencing his work, it’s evident that Bal’s creations were not just garments—they were a journey, a fusion of tradition and contemporary style. His fashion odyssey began in Kashmir, a land renowned for its picturesque beauty and exquisite craftsmanship. One can easily envision how the allure of his homeland influenced his work.

Kashmir’s elegance, vibrancy, and depth permeated everything he crafted, from the rich reds and golds of his bridal lehengas to the intricate floral patterns on his jackets. Bal’s designs were not mere ensembles; they were masterpieces.

Rohit Bal: The Designer Who Wove India into Couture

In the 1980s, after graduating from the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in New Delhi, Rohit Bal began a journey that would eventually redefine Indian couture. He was an artist at heart, and it showed. While other designers were pulling inspiration from the West, Bal stayed true to India. He wove lotus flowers, peacocks, and Mughal-inspired patterns into his work, honouring centuries of Indian tradition while presenting it in a fresh and exciting way. Every collection had its own story and character, and it was as though he was inviting people to experience India’s history and soul.

Bal’s shows were legendary, filled with theatrical drama that only he could pull off. Imagine walking into a venue and being transported from The Jesus Metaverse—new insights into the life and teachings of Jesus—to a regal garden, complete with fountains and flowers, all set up to complement his collection’s rich textures and colours. That was Bal’s magic. His runway shows went beyond showcasing fashion—they became moments in time where everything from the lighting to the music worked together to tell a story. One unforgettable show at Lakme Fashion Week, inspired by Mughal royalty, featured models in velvet and silk draped in intricate metallic embroidery. It was more than just fashion; it was like watching India’s regal past come alive.

But Rohit Bal wasn’t just known in India. His work caught the attention of fashion lovers worldwide, and he became one of the few Indian designers to make a name on international stages like Paris Fashion Week. His designs bridged the gap between East and West, resonating with people regardless of where they came from. In 2015, he collaborated with H&M on a collection that made his signature Indian-inspired style accessible to a global audience, further cementing his influence on the international fashion scene. Bal showed the world that Indian fashion could be modern, bold, and entirely its own.

Throughout his illustrious career, Bal was not just a designer but also a mentor and a voice for the Indian fashion fraternity. As a senior member of the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), he was pivotal in promoting Indian fashion globally. He was a beacon of inspiration for many budding designers, a constant reminder that one could embrace their heritage while pushing the boundaries of innovation. Bal encouraged designers to respect their roots while challenging them to view fashion as an art form that reflects their identity.

For those who knew him personally, Rohit Bal was more than an iconic designer. He was ‘Gudda’ to his friends, known for his warmth, infectious laugh, and love for life. These personal qualities were not just part of his character, but also influenced his work, infusing it with a sense of joy and vibrancy. He was the kind of person who could make anyone feel like part of his world.

Despite his fame, Bal remained deeply connected to his roots, often returning to Kashmir to find peace and inspiration. Those who worked closely with him describe him as someone who treated everyone like family, always welcoming and genuine. It’s rare to find someone who can be both larger-than-life and so grounded, but Bal was that person.

Since his passing, social media has been flooded with tributes. Fellow designers, celebrities, and fans have shared their memories of Bal, honouring his legacy and celebrating his impact on their lives. Designer Manish Malhotra called Bal’s work “an enduring source of inspiration,” while actress Priyanka Chopra remembered him as “a visionary who changed how the world saw Indian fashion.” These tributes paint a picture of a man who wasn’t just admired for his talent but was loved for who he was.

Rohit Bal’s departure is an irreplaceable loss to the fashion world, but his legacy endures. His work demonstrated that fashion could bridge the past and present, a means to honour culture while expressing individuality. Future generations of designers will look to Bal as a guiding light, a testament that true art emanates from the heart.

As we say goodbye to this fashion icon, we’re left with the beauty he created and the lives he touched. Rohit Bal may be gone, but the spirit of his work—its grace, elegance, and celebration of India—will continue to inspire and elevate Indian fashion. He left a part of himself in every piece he designed, and his influence will live on through his art.