New Delhi: Bollywood personalities such as Sonam Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Ananya Panday, and others mourned the death of fashion designer Rohit Bal, 63, a connoisseur of luxury fashion wear fondly known in the industry as ‘Gudda’.
The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) announced the passing away of the iconic designer, known for his lotus and peacock motifs, late on November 1.
The fashion designer was suffering from a heart ailment and, in 2023, was admitted to the intensive care unit.
The FDCI shared an Instagram post titled “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. You are a legend.”
The designer’s last show was at the Lakme Fashion Week in the National Capital, and his muse was Bollywood actress Ananya Panday, who took to her Instagram stories and shared a picture of the two strutting the ramp after the grand finale.
She captioned the image: “Gudda. Om Shanti.”
Actress Sonam Kapoor shared a string of images, including a WhatsApp chat with the designer. She wrote a heartfelt note for Bal, whose creations she wore the same day for the Diwali celebration.
She wrote, “Dear Gudda, I heard about your passing on my way to celebrate Diwali in your gorgeous creation that you generously lent to me for the second time. I’ve been blessed to have known you, worn you, and walked for you multiple times. I hope you’re at peace. I am always your biggest fan.”
Actor Sidharth Malhotra shared a picture with the iconic designer, who was known for his blue eyes and golden hair, and wrote: “Deeply saddened by the loss. May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti.”
Kareena Kapoor Khan just shared pictures from his younger days and dropped red, white, and black hearts to caption the images.
Gulshan Devaiah wrote: “ROHIT BAL: 8 MAY 1961 – 1 NOVEMBER 2024.”
Actress Nimrat Kaur said: “Visionary, trailblazer, icon. Rest in Excellence #RohitBal #RIPRohitBal.”
Bal’s work was not limited to just the country. His creations have been worn by global superstars such as Pamela Anderson, Uma Thurman, Cindy Crawford, and Naomi Campbell.
The iconic designer will be cremated on Saturday at the Lodhi Road Crematorium in the National Capital.
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–IANS
