Journalism of Courage
Renowned fashion designer Rohit Bal passed away on Friday. He was 63. (Express photo)
FDCI chairman Sunil Sethi confirmed Bal’s passing to The Indian Express. “He had been battling heart ailment for a while. He was rushed to the hospital today…but didn’t make it,” Sethi said. (Express archive photo by Ramesh Nair)
In 2010, Bal had suffered a cardiac arrest and had undergone an angioplasty procedure. In 2023, he was admitted to Gurugram’s Medanta Hospital in a critical condition to the ICU. (Express photo by Prashant Nadkar)
He recently showcased his collection, Kaaynaat: A Bloom in the Universe, at the FDCI X Lakme Fashion Week at the Imperial, New Delhi. (Express photo by Ravi Kanojia)
Call Me Bae actor Ananya Panday was his showstopper, at what was rumoured to be his last show. (Photo: PR handout)
In an Instagram post, FDCI wrote: We mourn the passing of Legendary designer Rohit Bal. He was a founding member of the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI). Known for his unique blend of traditional patterns with modern sensibilities, Bal’s work redefined Indian fashion, and inspired generations. His legacy of artistry, and innovation along with forward thinking will live on in the fashion world. Rest in peace GUDDA. The LEGEND is no more." (Express photo by Oinam Anand.)
The news of the designer’s passing — dubbed ‘India’s Master of fabric and fantasy’ by Time Magazine in 1996 — shocked the fashion fraternity and his well-wishers, with many taking to social media to express their grief. (Photo: Express archive)
