Rohit Bal, one of India's most celebrated fashion designers, has died aged 63 after a long period of illness. The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) announced his death in a post on Instagram, saying that his work "redefined Indian fashion". One of India's first designers, Bal popularised fashion designing as a viable, glamorous profession in the 1990s and many who came after him credit him for their success.
He had been forced to take a prolonged break due to ill health but made an emotional comeback just weeks ago. "We will always need a Rohit Bal around to show what classic elegance is - and why it crosses the generational divide," said an article in The Indian Express newspaper after Bal, looking frail but delighted, appeared alongside his models at the grand finale of the India Fashion Week in October. Bal's designs won acclaim for his deep understanding of Indian textiles and meticulous attention to detail.
His innovative creations were worn by Hollywood stars and supermodels and he became synonymous with blending India's rich cultural heritage with a contemporary flair. Born in Srinagar in Indian-administered Kashmir in 1961, Bal graduated from Delhi's St Stephens College with an honours degree in history. He then worked in his family's export business for a few years, learning the ropes.
After completing his formal education in fashion design at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in Delhi, Bal embarked on a journey that would redefine Indian fashi.
