Image: Instagram (@rohitbalofficial)

Ace fashion designer Rohit Bal is reportedly in critical condition and on ventilator support for a pre-existing cardiac condition at the Medanta Hospital in Gurugram.

In 2010, when the designer was at the peak of his career, he suffered from a heart attack for which he underwent an emergency angioplasty.

The designer’s illustrious career spans over three decades. Bal, being ahead of his time, was one of the first designers to create couture collections and also introduce a range of pret with his fashion line ‘Balance’.

Rohit Bal’s fashion line ‘Balance’ | Instagram (@rohitbalofficial)

Bal is recognised among peers for his creativity and has a loyal list of clientele from the business world, too.

In the dynamic world of Indian fashion, not many receive the fame they deserve, as the ‘celebrity’ fashion designers can be counted on fingertips.

Among them, Rohit Bal stands out as a designer who has made a lasting impact.

Born on May 8, 1961, in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, into a Kashmiri Pandit family, Bal’s journey was shaped by his academic pursuits and passion for creativity.

He earned his Bachelor’s degree in History from St. Stephens College, University of Delhi, before delving into the world of fashion at the National Institute of Fashion Technology in Delhi.

This academic foundation laid the groundwork for a career that would redefine the Indian fashion landscape.

In 1986, Rohit Bal, alongside his brother Rajiv Bal, founded Orchid Oversea in New Delhi, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey. The turning point came in 1990 when Bal unveiled his independent collection that would become his signature style.

Bal’s collaborations include Khadi Gram Udyog and the popular Indian game show Kaun Banega Crorepati.

Celebrities in Rohit Bal designs, from left to right: Amitabh Bachchan, Neeraj Chopra, Priyanka Chopra, Kareena Kapoor, Ranveer Singh  (Rohit Bal’s instagram)

Rohit Bal’s influence extends beyond the runway, with flagship stores in Delhi and across India. He has also ventured into the world of jewellery, integrating India-based motifs like peacock and lotus into his designs.

Not only India, Bal’s clientele also boasts of model and actor Cindy Crawford, Baywatch-fame Pamela Anderson, and recognised actor Uma Thurman, alongside a multitude of Indian celebrities. His international acclaim is further extended as an ambassador for Omega watches.

The fashion maestro has been rightfully recognized with numerous accolades, including the prestigious ‘Designer of the Year’ award at the Indian Fashion Awards in 2006.

(With inputs from IANS)

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