'Fashion Has Lost Its Original Showman!'

'It's rare to find a designer of his stature who remains so humble, kind and encouraging to everyone around him.'

Rohit Bal passed into the ages on November 1, but his effervescent spirit will always be remembered, discovers Rajesh Karkera/Rediff.com.

Model-actress Aishwarya Sushmita shares her heartfelt memories about 'Gudda' and his profound impact on her career.

"I remember entering the fashion industry with both excitement and uncertainty. Amidst that whirlwind, there were a few designers who came forward to tell me how they loved my work, which meant a lot.

"Rohit Bal was one of those rare voices and I'll never forget that moment.

"During one of my earliest shows, he looked at me for a good 10 seconds and then simply said, 'You are beautiful.' Coming from a legend like him, it was incredibly validating. At that stage, I was still discovering what 'beautiful' truly meant in this world, but his words gave me confidence and made me feel recognised.

"Rohit Bal's creations are grand and awe-inspiring and I'm honoured to have had the chance to showcase his designs. There were quite a few newcomers who found his intricate pieces challenging to carry off on the runway, but he always showed them understanding and respect.

"It's rare to find a designer of his stature who remains so humble, kind and encouraging to everyone around him.

"His loss is a profound one for the fashion industry.

"Wearing his outfits always felt transformative I'd feel like a goddess, enveloped in his artistry."

At the same time, I am also deeply grateful to Apu (Aparna Bahl) and Pujan for believing in me during those early days. They let me open the show and line-up for Rohit Bal, something I cherish as a moment of trust and support. Their faith in me has been invaluable.

Fashion has truly shaped who I am today. It has added depth to my personality and given me the strength to move forward. I will always carry a soft spot for the journey fashion has taken me on and for the incredible people who believed in me along the way.

"It was such a joy to work with Gudda," says model Shweta Dolli.

"His energy was infectious and his shows had this sense of festivity.

"He was so much fun to be around -- he would always break into a little jig at the end of his shows on the runway which would lead to all of us joining in.

"He'll be dearly missed.

Candice Pinto remembers, "Gudda always was a free-spirited and kind person.

"His heart and talent were showcased in each and every ensemble he ever made.

"His life is a beautiful love story and I am blessed to have worked with him and known him.

"I will miss Gudda's smile and his dance at the end of his shows."

"I have had the opportunity to work with, the legendary Rohit Bal numerous times," says model Amit Ranjan. "He was a grand man in all ways."

"There was grandeur in his designs and the shows were magical.

"He was a magnificent artist and a tremendously generous human being. Once I had friends visiting from California. We were 10 of us and there were children in the group. The restaurant was booked and we didn't have a reservation. I gave him a call to try my luck and he made sure that we were accommodated and had a great evening.

"This is a reflection of the man that he was -- humble, caring and generous. Fashion has lost its original showman!"

Khushboo Kankan also recalls Bal's kindness. "I still remember the time I had cut my hair, I think it was back in 2019.

"Many people liked the look and many disliked it which left me with a lot of doubts.

"I was doing his show and, when I walked in, he said, 'Keep her hair like that; she looks very retro.' It immediately lifted my spirits.

"He was one of the few designers who would always come backstage and check with his models to make sure they had eaten before the show. He always used to comfort us before the show. I am going to miss all the laughter and happy moments.

"We have lost an original designer with a pure soul and only happiness and love in his heart.

"His smile and his dance in every show became iconic.

"One could see him purely in his eyes.

"There are very few designers -- and they are the most brilliant ones -- who keep their signature style alive with different variations and designs. He was one of them.

"My only regret is that I was not there in his last show.

"He has left his legacy behind for all of us.

"I am going to miss him.

"May his soul rest in peace. I am sure he is dancing and spreading love wherever he is."