February 2, 2025: At the Blenders Pride X FDCI Fashion Tour 2025, Bollywood actress Sonam Kapoor paid a heartfelt tribute to the legendary fashion designer Rohit Bal, who left a lasting legacy on the Indian fashion industry. The event, which took place on February 1 at Le Meridien in Gurugram, was more than just a fashion show—it was a tribute to the late designer, who passed away at the age of 63.
Sonam Kapoor, visibly emotional, walked the runway in a heavily embellished ivory outfit by Rohit Bal, clearly touched by the impact the designer had on both the fashion world and the people he worked with.
Kapoor, who had a long-standing relationship with Bal, shared her feelings . “I am so happy to be here for Gudda,” she said, referring to the designer by his affectionate nickname. “I have been privileged to wear his clothes many times and to have him design clothes for me also many times. It feels wonderful to do probably his last show.”
Kapoor spoke fondly of Bal’s design philosophy, which resonated deeply with her style. She described his work as a “celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and beauty,” saying that it was exactly the kind of design she loved to wear. She also praised Bal for his ability to embrace the Indian aesthetic in a way that was timeless and elegant, adding, “He embraced the Indian aesthetic so beautifully, and that makes it very timeless and elegant.”
Rohit Bal, affectionately known as “Gudda,” was celebrated for blending traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary sensibilities, shaping the Indian fashion landscape and inspiring numerous designers and fashion enthusiasts. The fashion show, a tribute to Bal, featured 63 prominent figures from various fields who walked the runway to honor the late designer’s legacy.
Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar, fashion designer JJ Valaya, actor Eesha Gupta, actor Rahul Dev, and model Mughda Godse were among the figures who paid tribute by walking the ramp. Each of them represented a different facet of Bal’s illustrious career and personal life, further highlighting his influence and reach.
The night was filled with emotion, not just for the artistry of Bal’s work, but also for the deep connections he had forged throughout his life. His passing in November 2024 had left the fashion community in mourning, but his legacy continued to inspire. Sonam Kapoor had previously shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, reflecting on her experiences with the designer and his passing, stating, “Dear Gudda, I hear about your passing on my way to celebrate Diwali in your gorgeous creation that you generously lent to me. I’ve been blessed to have known you, worn you, and walked for you multiple times. I hope you’re at peace
