With Sonam Kapoor, JJ Valaya, Madhur Bhandarkar, and over 100 icons paying tribute, Gurugram witnessed an unforgettable homage to the maestro of Indian couture.
Rohit Bal is not just a designer. He is an artist, a revolutionary, and the architect of modern Indian couture. At the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour 2025, his extraordinary legacy was celebrated in a way that transcended a fashion show. It became history in the making.
The event, curated in collaboration with Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), brought together India’s most influential voices in fashion, Bollywood, and media for an evening that honored the unmistakable grandeur, theatrical storytelling, and craftsmanship that define Bal’s work.
A Tribute Woven in Art, Music, and Legacy
From the moment the show began, it was clear that this was not an ordinary runway event. Instead, it was a living, breathing tribute to the man who transformed Indian fashion into an art form.
Projected visuals of Bal’s most iconic creations enveloped the venue, immersing guests in a multi-sensory experience of color, movement, and heritage. The space was adorned with motifs inspired by Bal’s signature designs, crafted by set designer Sumant Jayakrishnan.
Live performances by Vibha Saraf and Deveshi Sahgal echoed through the air, creating a fusion of music and emotion that brought Bal’s journey to life. And in a moment of pure cinematic brilliance, Sonam Kapoor, the designer’s eternal muse, stepped onto the runway, embodying the very essence of Bal’s vision.
“Rohit Bal is not just a designer. He is a storyteller, an artist, and a visionary,” said Sonam Kapoor. “Being part of this tribute was not just an honor, it was a privilege.”
A Legacy That Redefined Indian Couture
Bal’s influence extends far beyond clothing. He has shaped the very language of Indian fashion, bringing together heritage, modernity, and unparalleled craftsmanship. His creations, deeply inspired by Kashmiri embroidery, Mughal architecture, and intricate zardozi work, have graced global runways, redefining India’s presence in international couture.
- The Heritage of Kashmir: Bal’s signature motifs, intricate threadwork, and royal-inspired silhouettes have made him a custodian of cultural artistry.
- Bridging Tradition and Rebellion: Bal redefined couture, taking Indian craftsmanship beyond borders to international platforms such as Paris Fashion Week.
- An Unparalleled Showman: His runway productions are legendary, bringing together fashion, drama, and storytelling in ways no other designer has.
As fashion historian Hamish Bowles once noted, “Rohit Bal doesn’t just design, he creates entire worlds on the runway.”
Blenders Pride Fashion Tour: More Than a Show, A Movement
This year’s Blenders Pride Fashion Tour has positioned itself as India’s premier platform for fashion, culture, and artistic innovation. The tribute to Rohit Bal was only the beginning.
“This tribute to Rohit Bal was one for the ages. It reflected our long-standing commitment to spotlighting the iconic voices shaping Indian fashion,” said Kartik Mohindra, CMO, Pernod Ricard India.
The tour now heads to Mumbai, where Tarun Tahiliani will present a groundbreaking showcase, followed by Chandigarh, Guwahati, and Vizag, featuring:
- Kanika Goyal & Jacqueline Fernandez fusing street luxe with high fashion in Chandigarh.
- Jaywalking & Tiger Shroff redefining athleisure in Guwahati.
- Bloni & Tamannaah Bhatia blending fashion with futuristic technology in Vizag.