In the midst of celebrating the joyous festival of Diwali, Bollywood celebrities Karan Johar and Sonam Kapoor were struck by the somber news of the passing of renowned fashion designer Rohit Bal. Both Johar and Kapoor, who have made significant contributions to the Indian fashion landscape themselves, were ironically adorned in creations by the late designer, fondly known in the industry as ‘Gudda.’
The unfortunate news of Rohit Bal’s death at the age of 63 resonated deeply within the fashion and film fraternity, highlighting the immense void left by the designer’s sudden departure. Filmmaker Karan Johar expressed his profound grief and admiration for the designer whom he described as “a connoisseur of luxury wear” and whose work he believed to be irreplaceable in the industry. Johar, who was wearing one of Rohit Bal’s signature cream-colored kurta designs for the Diwali festivities, took to social media to share his sentiments with his followers.
“With a heavy heart, I ponder on Gudda’s unparalleled artistry and craftsmanship,” Johar wrote alongside images of himself in the intricate kurta. “I recently marveled at his latest collection, and it felt only fitting to wear one of his masterpieces as a tribute during Diwali. The shocking news of his passing reached me just as I had adorned his garment, solidifying an unintentional yet heartfelt homage to his legacy.”
Similarly, actress Sonam Kapoor, known for being a fashion icon in her own right, was dressed in a breathtaking ensemble crafted by Rohit Bal. Her outfit featured a stunning white gown enhanced by an elaborate jacket, accompanied by a unique cloth neckpiece that made a bold style statement. Kapoor shared her reflections on Instagram, emphasizing the personal connections and memories she had built with the designer over the years.
“My thoughts this Diwali are shadowed by the melancholy reality of losing such a vibrant soul,” Sonam expressed in her post. “Wearing his exquisite creation was initially a celebration of joy, but it quickly turned into an homage.
. The news of Gudda’s passing during the celebrations was indeed heartbreaking. Over the years, I was honored to present his beautiful designs on numerous occasions, each piece echoing his unmatched creativity and passion. I will forever treasure the remarkable moments and artistic exchanges we shared.”
Karan and Sonam’s tributes underscore Rohit Bal’s impactful and enduring presence in the Indian fashion industry. Described as a pioneer and a legend, Bal’s designs transcended conventional fashion boundaries and brought Indian ethnic wear to the global stage. His unique vision was admired and respected by peers and admirers around the world.
Rohit Bal’s career was marked by his ability to transform traditional Indian motifs into lavish ensembles that appealed to contemporary aesthetics. His runway shows were not just fashion presentations but theatrical performances that captivated audiences with their intricate detailing and artistic expressions. Bal’s trademark use of lotus and peacock motifs, as well as muted color palettes that spoke volumes without a single word, made his collections instantly recognizable and deeply cherished.
Though the loss of Rohit Bal is being felt acutely, his legacy will indelibly remain through the countless lives he touched and the immeasurable contributions he made to the fashion world. His ability to craft stories with fabric and seamlessly intertwine emotion with design earned him a place among the most esteemed designers of his generation.
As Diwali often calls for acknowledging the light in our lives, Karan Johar, Sonam Kapoor, and many others choose to remember Rohit Bal not only for his incredible talent but also for the light he brought into the lives of those around him, a testament to his personal and professional journey that will continue to inspire future generations. Rest in peace, Gudda.
