### Indian Fashion Designer Rohit Bal Passes Away at 63

Rohit Bal, a luminary in the world of Indian fashion designing, has passed away at the age of 63 after a prolonged illness. The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) shared the news on Instagram, highlighting how Bal's contributions dramatically transformed the landscape of Indian fashion.

Bal emerged as one of India's pioneering designers in the 1990s, making fashion design a recognized and aspirational profession. His innovative and elegant creations garnered widespread acclaim and set a precedent that many designers who followed credit for their own success. As noted by The Indian Express, his final appearance at India Fashion Week in October was a poignant moment, encapsulating the timeless elegance that defined his career.

Born in Srinagar, Kashmir, in 1961, Bal's journey began at St. Stephen's College in Delhi, where he graduated with an honours degree in history. He briefly worked in his family's export business before pursuing formal fashion education at the National Institute of Fashion Technology in Delhi. In 1990, Bal founded his own label, which soon became synonymous with blending India's rich cultural heritage with contemporary style.

Celebrated for his intricate use of Indian textiles and motifs like lotus and peacock, Bal's designs often featured opulent fabrics such as velvet and brocade. His work caught the eyes of international stars, with Hollywood icons like Uma Thurman and supermodels Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, and Pamela Anderson donning his creations. Tennis star Anna Kournikova also walked the ramp at his Paris show in 2001.

In addition to his couture designs, Bal was versatile in his ventures, lending his name to various product endorsements and entering into collaborations with major textile companies like the Aditya Birla Group. His foray into jewellery and luxury watch design further showcased his diverse talents. He even designed costumes for British Airways' cabin crew and the widely-viewed Indian game show "Kaun Banega Crorepati?"

Bal's contributions extended to interior design, notably for the upscale Delhi restaurant Veda, which received significant media attention for its lavish decor. Despite his flamboyant public persona, often dubbed the "bad boy of fashion" by the Indian media, those who met him found a humble and genuine individual.

Rohit Bal's legacy is one of innovation, elegance, and a deep respect for India's textile heritage. His influence spans across generations and will continue to inspire future designers in the realm of Indian fashion.