Sonam Kapoor’s Tribute To Rohit Bal: 'Blessed To Have Known, Worn, And Walked For You'

Iconic fashion designer Rohit Bal passed away on November 1 after fighting a long battle with a heart ailment.

The demise of the designer, known for drawing inspiration from history, fantasy and folklore to create masterpieces, led to shockwaves in the both India's fashion, and entertainment world.

Sonam Kapoor mourns late fashion designer, friend Rohit Bal

Bollywood actress, fashionista Sonam Kapoor, who was on her way to a Diwali bash dressed in a Rohit Bal creation, penned an emotional post that made her admiration for the fashion maverick's handcrafted perfection public. 

Who the world knew as Rohit Bal, the celebrated fashion designer, was 'Guddu' to Sonam Kapoor, In the first of her current series of Instagram stories, she said, "Dear gudda, I hear 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 and worn you and walked for you multiple times. I hope you are at peace. Always your biggest fan."

Later, Kapoor also mentioned, “His legacy of artistry, and innovation along with forward-thinking will live on in the fashion world. Rest in peace GUDDA (sic).”

The silence that echoes in India's fashion sphere

Rohit had been suffering from a heart ailment since last year. He was admitted to the intensive care unit of the Medanta Hospital, Gurugram in November 2023. The fashion designer was rushed to the hospital due to complications related to a pre-existing cardiac condition.

Bal had made his comeback to work earlier this year and presented his last show at the Lakme India Fashion Week previous month in Delhi. The designer had also stumbled on the ramp, causing panic among fans, well wishers about his health.

The death of India's most dynamic designers that critics have claimed understood the psyche of the burgeoning world of fashion was confirmed through an official note posted on Instagram by FDCI.

"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," it said.