Radhika Merchant In Showstopper Lehenga From Rohit Bal's Last Collection, Designer Passes Away At 63

Iconic fashion designer, Rohit Bal has sadly passed away at the age of 63 following a year-long battle with a critical heart condition. The talented designer’s last collection was presented at the Lakme Fashion Week X FDCI 2024 grand finale in October 2024. Rohit’s emotional comeback to the runway ten months after his illness was magnificent. His collection found a showstopper in Ananya Pandey then, but not long after, Ambani bride, Radhika Merchant was also spotted in the same lehenga. 

Radhika Merchant dons showstopper lehenga from Rohit Bal’s final collection for friend’s wedding 

Fashionista, Radhika Merchant was captured celebrating her friend's wedding to the fullest in the stunning showstopper lehenga from Rohit Bal’s last collection. In a clip from the wedding, the Ambani bride was seen performing with two other friends on the song Sajna Ve Sajna. Her proud in-laws, Mukesh and Nita Ambani were also spotted in the crowd recording their daughter-in-law’s dance.

However, what really turned heads was Radhika’s gorgeous black-hued lehenga from Rohit Bal’s collection. The stunning piece, first worn by Ananya Panday, featured embroidered red roses and an intricate zari border. It also came with a striking short cape-style choli, which gave the look a unique charm. Radhika let her lehenga do the talking by opting for minimal makeup and tying her hair up in a simple ponytail.

Rohit Bal’s cheerful spirit never dulled amid health struggles, danced for the last time at final show

For the unversed, Rohit Bal, or Gudda, as he is also known, was suffering from a critical heart ailment. The designer was even admitted to the ICU for the same last year but ended up recovering. However, despite these struggles, Rohit Bal never lost his cheerful spirit. At his final show, the designer was seen grooving on the runway with Ananya Panday and others. Rohit’s last dance is a bittersweet moment, showing his strength but also causing pain at his demise. 

Watch the video here. 

Rohit Bal’s final collection, Kaaynaat, was a celebration of the ‘bloom of life and beauty’

While no one could have foreseen the tragedy, everyone associated with the Lakme Fashion Week X FDCI 2024 was aware of Rohit Bal’s health struggles. So, his final collection in the showcase was an emotional show. Jaspreet Chandok, Group Vice President of Reliance brands, who escorted Rohit onto the runway for his closing speech, said about the same:

"We’ve watched his finale for so many years, and this time there were a lot of variables at play. We had to be sensitive about his health. It was very emotional through it all."

Ankur Verma, a designer, whose work has been featured in the showcase, made a similar remark. The aspiring designer stated that in the end, the showcase was Rohit’s show, and everyone was there for him, not fashion week. Ankur further stated that everyone, including himself, shed tears for the designer, Rohit Bal, who inspired entire generations.

Rohit Bal gained recognition for the bold and unapologetically vibrant motifs in his designs. His collection, Kaaynaat, strongly featured that signature element while also introducing swirling capes meant to denote a celebration of life. Speaking about his collection, Rohit said:

"Kaaynaat was a journey through the wonders of nature, celebrating the bloom of life and beauty."

Our hearts go out to Rohit Bal’s loved ones during these trying times. May they find the strength to cope with this utter tragedy.

Also Read: Rohit Bal's Death: Close Friend, Lalit Tehlan Accused Of Slowly Poisoning Him, Once Left Him To Die

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