The show goes on as Rohit Bal's team keeps the dream and his designs alive

India Today

5 days ago

Kashmir, Rohit Bal's homeland, came alive in New Delhi on July 28 as his label took a step forward months after the late designer's death, unfolding a new chapter in the history of Indian fashion.Lotuses bloomed, peacocks returned in their full plumage and Kashida embroidery lit up Bal's signature black and ivory ensembles - a true reflection of his design language he upheld over the years. But this time, the designer watched it all from the heavens.advertisementKash-Gul, the first collection unveiled since his passing, was presented by the team carrying his legacy forward. Fittingly, it drew from Kashmir - Bal's eternal inspiration - and its beautiful flowers (gul), taking center stage at the ongoing Hyundai India Couture Week 2025, a Fashion Design Council of India initiative.
A new era begins for the label Rohit Bal with its first collection showcase at India Couture Week 2025, following the designer's passing in November 2024.
As his mainstay silhouettes like anarkalis, bandhgalas, sherwanis, and achkans with voluminous skirts - all cut in his unmatched sharp tailoring - took over the runway, crafted from Rohit Bal's beloved fabrics like velvet, muslin, and matka silk, one thing became clear: as expected, the team is committed to preserving his design language and spirit.The label is now helmed by Fraze Tasnim, chosen by Bal himself to carry forward the brand's legacy. Tasnim began working with Bal in 2011, took a hiatus to pursue an MBA and gain business acumen, and eventually returned as a senior designer.
Team Rohit Bal presents 'Kash-Gul' at India Couture Week 2025.
In an exclusive conversation with India Today Digital, the designer shared his plans in keeping the label – that employs 400 people – alive.'It is a responsibility to carry forward his legacy as per his style. We are trying our best to maintain that. The aim is to keep the soul (of the label) alive. As per the design language also, we will keep that going. We will add some new stuff, but the soul will be Rohit's,' Tasnim said.
Arjun Rampal with Ayaz ul Haq (left) and Fraze Tasnim (right) - the ones spearheading Rohit Bal's legacy.
Rohit Bal's death in November 2024 left the fashion fraternity in deep shock, creating an unfillable void. The designer had been battling health issues for several years. His maverick persona and zestful approach to life kept him going - so much so that a visibly ill Bal even grooved on stage during his final show, which featured Ananya Panday as the showstopper.Known as the OG socialite, full of life and humour, and famous for throwing the most extravagant parties, Bal built strong and lasting friendships. As his label now takes a 'step forward' without him, the fashion fraternity turned up in full strength. Like they always did when he was still alive.
Arjun Rampal turned showstopper in a regal black sherwani.
His team, meanwhile, left no stone unturned in putting together a memorable show. Ivory - Bal's favourite colour - set the tone for the evening, as the show opened on a subtle note with models walking down the ramp in his signature ivory ensembles, accompanied by a Kashmiri song playing in the background. Bright red roses adorning the models' hair felt like a heartfelt nod to Bal and the legacy he built over decades.
From velveteen lehengas adorned with rich golden zardozi and intricate floral patterns to a colour palette of ivory, black, and burgundy - the Kash-Gul collection brought together all the signature elements of Rohit Bal.
advertisementThe show eventually took on a more jovial tone, as opulent black ensembles and Bal's signature red creations took over the runway, while the live music transformed into a foot-tapping concert.Bal's team roped in his trusted industry friends — scenographer Sumant Jayakrishnan, show director Aparna Bahl Bedi, and photographer Gautam Kalra - to come together and create an unforgettable night that marked the beginning of a new era.As a new era for the Rohit Bal label begins, it is not merely a cut-copy-paste of the past. Fresh design elements such as houndstooth patterns and leather have been subtly introduced to evolve the brand's design language.
Houndstooth introduced to label Rohit Bal's design language.
advertisementAyaz Ul Haq, who has been associated with Bal and his label since 2005 and works closely with the design team, told India Today that the idea was to explore new territory while staying true to Bal's legacy.'That's why we've retained familiar silhouettes - ivory, long jackets, flowing outfits,' Haq said.This marks a rare moment in Indian fashion: a legacy brand being carried forward by its handpicked successors. The team has ambitious expansion plans ahead, including new store launches at Delhi's high street Dhan Mill and in Hyderabad, as well as an upcoming exhibition in Paris.- EndsTrending Reel