Bollywood actress Sonam Kapoor recently paid an emotional tribute to legendary fashion designer Rohit Bal, a name synonymous with Indian haute couture, at the Blenders Pride X FDCI Fashion Tour 2025 in Gurugram. The heartfelt moment, captured on video, quickly went viral, leaving the fashion industry and fans reminiscing about Bal’s unparalleled contributions to Indian fashion.
Sonam Kapoor’s Emotional Tribute to Rohit Bal
During the prestigious event, Sonam walked the ramp in a stunning white ensemble, accentuated by a heavily embroidered ivory jacket, a design reminiscent of Rohit Bal’s signature aesthetic. As she reached the center stage, overwhelmed with emotions, Sonam Kapoor broke down in tears, paying homage to the legendary designer who left an indelible mark on global fashion. Folding her hands in reverence, she acknowledged the audience, showcasing the deep bond she shared with Rohit Bal.
The tribute event was a grand celebration of Rohit Bal’s legacy, featuring sixty-three prominent figures from various creative fields. Among those who walked the ramp to honor him were celebrated personalities like filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar, designer JJ Valaya, and actors Eesha Gupta, Rahul Dev, and Mughda Godse.
Viral Video Captures Sonam’s Heartfelt Moment
Several videos capturing Sonam Kapoor’s emotional outburst have surfaced across social media platforms, drawing widespread reactions. One of the most widely shared clips was posted by Viral Bhayani, a well-known Bollywood paparazzo. He captioned the post, “Sonam Kapoor bursts into tears remembering late fashion designer Rohit Bal.”
Fans and industry insiders flooded social media with tributes, celebrating both Sonam’s emotional display and Rohit Bal’s enduring influence in the world of haute couture.
Rohit Bal: The Iconic Designer’s Legacy Lives On
Rohit Bal, often hailed as the “Master of Fabric and Fantasy,” passed away on November 1, 2024, at the age of 63, following a heart attack. The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) confirmed the heartbreaking news in an official statement, mourning the loss of the iconic designer:
“As a founding member of the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), Rohit Bal was a visionary who redefined Indian fashion. His ability to merge traditional heritage with contemporary aesthetics set new standards in the industry, inspiring countless designers and fashion enthusiasts.”
FDCI concluded their tribute with the heartfelt message: “Rest in peace, GUDDA. Your legacy in the fashion world is eternal.”
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Rohit Bal’s Health Struggles and Final Comeback
Despite suffering from a heart ailment for several years, Rohit Bal remained committed to his passion for fashion. In 2010, he underwent an emergency angioplasty, and in 2023, he was hospitalized in an intensive care unit due to severe health complications. However, he staged an impressive comeback in October 2024, presenting his final collection at the Lakmé Fashion Week X FDCI 2024 grand finale. Bollywood actress Ananya Panday served as the showstopper, wearing an exquisite piece designed by Bal, featuring intricate embroidery, flowing silhouettes, and celestial hues inspired by the cosmos.
Rohit Bal: A Timeless Influence on Global Fashion
For decades, Rohit Bal was celebrated for his impeccable craftsmanship and ability to weave heritage-rich narratives into contemporary fashion. His work seamlessly blended regal Indian aesthetics with avant-garde elements, setting him apart as a true pioneer of haute couture.
As the fashion industry mourns the loss of a creative genius, Sonam Kapoor’s tribute serves as a testament to the profound impact Rohit Bal had on Indian fashion, inspiring generations of designers and fashion lovers.
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