Rohit Bal, a prominent figure in Indian fashion, passed away at the age of 63 after battling a long illness. The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) shared the news on Instagram, highlighting his significant impact on the industry, stating that his contributions “redefined Indian fashion.” Emerging in the 1990s, Bal was among the first designers to elevate fashion design into a respected and glamorous profession, with many contemporary designers attributing their success to his influence.

Despite a period of ill health that kept him away from the spotlight, Bal made an emotional return just weeks prior to his passing. An article in The Indian Express remarked on his appearance at the India Fashion Week finale, where he looked frail yet joyful alongside his models, emphasizing the timeless elegance he represented.

Bal was renowned for his profound knowledge of Indian textiles and meticulous craftsmanship. His innovative designs attracted attention from Hollywood celebrities and supermodels alike, symbolizing a unique fusion of traditional Indian heritage with modern aesthetics. Born in Srinagar in 1961, he studied history at St. Stephen’s College in Delhi before working briefly in his family’s export business. He later pursued formal education in fashion design at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), which set him on a transformative path in fashion.

In 1990, he launched his own label and subsequently expanded with stores across India, the Middle East, and Europe. Bal described his work as an amalgamation of history, folklore, and traditional crafts to create imaginative pieces for high-profile events. In 1996, Time magazine recognized him as India’s ‘Master of fabric and fantasy.’

His creations gained international acclaim, worn by stars such as Uma Thurman and supermodels including Cindy Crawford and Naomi Campbell. Known for using motifs like lotuses and peacocks along with rich fabrics like velvet and brocade, Bal’s designs were characterized by their opulence and inspiration from Indian royalty.

Beyond clothing design, Bal ventured into product endorsements ranging from footwear to home textiles. He even designed for children’s fashion and created costumes for popular television shows. His approach aimed to distinguish between different facets of his brand while maintaining a focus on quality craftsmanship.

Throughout his career, Bal’s vibrant personality shone through in his work and lifestyle. He noted that fabric is essential to garment design, reflecting deeply personal memories tied to textiles from his childhood in Kashmir. His later years were marked by endeavors beyond fashion as he engaged in restaurant design and embraced collaborations that showcased Indian artistry.

Bal’s flamboyant image often led to misperceptions about his character; however, he revealed that those who met him found a different reality behind the public persona. His legacy as a pioneering designer will continue to influence future generations in the world of fashion.