In a powerful narrative of resilience and artistry, Indian fashion designer Rohit Bal made a striking return to the runway during Lakmé Fashion Week X FDCI’s Grand Finale, defying a challenging year marked by serious health issues. Known for pushing boundaries in Indian fashion, Bal, affectionately called “Gudda” by friends, had been admitted to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram in November 2023, grappling with critical heart complications . Under the care of cardiologist Dr Praveen Chandra, Bal was in intensive care, battling both a heart condition and a pacemaker-related infection that required life support.
Months of recovery culminated in his much-awaited comeback collection, Kaaynaat: A Bloom in the Universe , a testament to both his creative genius and indomitable spirit. The finale saw Ananya Panday—the showstopper—gracing the ramp in a stunning noir floral lehenga. Bal, visibly moved, joined her for the final bow, swaying to the iconic beats of Madonna’s “Vogue,” signalling a return that was much more than just another fashion show; it was a celebration of life itself.
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