15 Days Before His Death, Rohit Bal’s Joyful Ramp Walk with Ananya Panday Leaves Fans Emotional

The fashion industry was left in shock as legendary designer Rohit Bal, also known as "Gudda," passed away unexpectedly after recently gracing the ramp at Lakme Fashion Week. Known for his creative brilliance and distinctive style, Bal was an icon in Indian and global fashion, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire.

Just 15 days before his passing, Rohit Bal captivated audiences at the Lakme Fashion Week finale, where he presented his latest collection, "Kainaat: A Bloom in the Universe." The grand event, featuring Bollywood star Ananya Panday as the showstopper, was a fitting tribute to Bal’s artistic vision. Holding a rose alongside his models, he appeared joyous, unaware that it would be his last appearance. His presence, even amid health challenges, was both emotional and inspiring for those who admired his work.

Heart Attack Claims the Life of a Fashion Icon

Rohit Bal passed away at the age of 63 after suffering a heart attack in a South Delhi hospital on Friday night. Known for his work with high-profile celebrities both in India and Hollywood, Bal’s designs graced stars like Deepika Padukone, Cindy Crawford, and Naomi Campbell. Despite health concerns over the past year, he remained active in the fashion scene, showing dedication to his craft till the very end.

During the Lakme Fashion Week, Bal seemed visibly unwell, a sight that brought tears to the eyes of many attendees. It felt like he was bidding a final farewell to the fashion world he had helped shape with elegance and poise. His collection, showcased at Delhi's Imperial Hotel, marked a powerful moment in his career, embodying his philosophy of blending traditional aesthetics with contemporary styles.

Ananya Panday’s Heartfelt Gesture

Ananya Panday, who played a key role in his last show, gifted Bal a rose as the show concluded. This simple yet touching gesture left a lasting memory for all present, marking a beautiful end to an extraordinary event. Shortly after, Bal’s health worsened, and he was admitted to a hospital in Delhi, where doctors tried to revive him for over two hours, as confirmed by Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) Chairman Sunil Sethi.

With a career of more than 30 years, Rohit Bal was a pioneer in Indian fashion, known for bringing traditional Indian handlooms to high fashion. Collaborating with Khadi Gram Udyog, Bal infused high-end fashion with Indian craftsmanship, forever changing the landscape of Indian design. His work attracted Hollywood stars like Uma Thurman and Bollywood icons like Arjun Rampal, placing him among the most celebrated designers in the industry.

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The FDCI honored Rohit Bal with a tribute on social media, highlighting his role in redefining Indian fashion. "Known for blending traditional and modern sensibilities, Rohit Bal inspired generations. His legacy of innovation and artistry will live on," read the post. Bal’s uniqueness and originality were reflected in every piece he created, making him an irreplaceable figure in the fashion world.

“I Always Stayed True to Myself”

In a 2019 interview, Bal shared, "I always did what felt true to me, not what others were doing. My design philosophy is strong and focused, and I believe that what you create with heart and soul will always be relevant." His words resonate deeply with the industry he left behind, as his timeless elegance continues to influence aspiring designers.

Born in 1961 in Srinagar, Rohit Bal graduated from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, before starting his own label in 1990. His early career began at his brother’s export company, where he focused on traditional menswear. His efforts to promote handloom fabrics in high fashion led him to collaborate with artisans across India, a contribution that will forever be remembered.

As the world bids farewell to Rohit Bal, his legacy lives on through the countless designers and artists he inspired. His journey reminds us of the power of originality, passion, and the importance of staying true to oneself, even in an ever-changing industry.