Bal, who was born in Srinagar in 1961, received an education in history at St. Stephen's College, later shifting to fashion design at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT). He launched his own label in 1990, quickly earning a reputation for his profound understanding of Indian textiles and attention to detail. His designs became synonymous with elegance and opulence, often featuring intricate motifs like lotus and peacock, showcased in luxurious fabrics such as velvet and brocade.
The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) announced his passing on social media, highlighting Bal's capacity to revolutionize Indian fashion. In his lifetime, he dressed numerous celebrities, including Uma Thurman and Naomi Campbell, and garnered international recognition, being dubbed the "Master of fabric and fantasy" by Time magazine in 1996.
Despite recent health challenges, Bal made an inspiring return to the fashion industry, featuring at the India Fashion Week with his models just weeks before his death. His vibrant personality and creative spirit enriched the fashion landscape, as he once expressed the philosophy that "fabric is the seed of designing a garment, it is the lifeblood of fashion."
Bal's artistic vision extended beyond clothing; he designed for prestigious brands and even ventured into restaurants, showcasing his knack for combining culinary and decorative aesthetics. His legacy is extensive, reflecting a passionate embrace of India’s cultural heritage while pioneering contemporary trends.
He will be remembered not just for his work but for his larger-than-life character, encapsulating the idea that "classic elegance" is timeless, resonating with future generations of fashion designers.
The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) announced his passing on social media, highlighting Bal's capacity to revolutionize Indian fashion. In his lifetime, he dressed numerous celebrities, including Uma Thurman and Naomi Campbell, and garnered international recognition, being dubbed the "Master of fabric and fantasy" by Time magazine in 1996.
Despite recent health challenges, Bal made an inspiring return to the fashion industry, featuring at the India Fashion Week with his models just weeks before his death. His vibrant personality and creative spirit enriched the fashion landscape, as he once expressed the philosophy that "fabric is the seed of designing a garment, it is the lifeblood of fashion."
Bal's artistic vision extended beyond clothing; he designed for prestigious brands and even ventured into restaurants, showcasing his knack for combining culinary and decorative aesthetics. His legacy is extensive, reflecting a passionate embrace of India’s cultural heritage while pioneering contemporary trends.
He will be remembered not just for his work but for his larger-than-life character, encapsulating the idea that "classic elegance" is timeless, resonating with future generations of fashion designers.
