Sonam Kapoor's tribute to 'Gudda' Rohit Bal: Celebrating Diwali in your creation

Fashion designer Rohit Bal died on Friday after suffering from a heart issue. His friend and actor Sonam Kapoor shared an emotional tribute on social media, wearing one of his creations to celebrate Diwali.

In Short

• Fashion designer Rohit Bal died at 63 due to a heart ailment
• Sonam Kapoor shared an emotional tribute to the designer on Instagram
• Rohit Bal was one of the founding members of the Fashion Design Council of India

Fashion designer Rohit Bal died on Friday, November 1 due to a heart ailment. Actor Sonam Kapoor shared an emotional note as he remembered the ace designer. She shared a photo of herself wearing one of the late designer's creations, and wrote about being blessed to have known him closely.

Sonam addressed Rohit as 'Gudda', as he was popularly called, and wrote on her Instagram stories: "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 (sic)."

The 63-year-old designer had been battling with a heart ailment for some time. The news of his death was confirmed by a note posted on the official Instagram account of FDCI (Fashion Design Council of India). The statement read, "We mourn the passing of legendary designer Rohit Bal. He was a founding member of the Fasion 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 (sic)."

The post further added, "His legacy of artistry, and innovation along with forward-thinking will live on in the fashion world. Rest in peace GUDDA (sic)."

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

He made his comeback to work earlier this year and showcased his last show at the Lakme India Fashion Week last month in Delhi. The designer stumbled on the ramp, leaving fans worried about his health.