Arjun Rampal Showstops for Rohit Bal Tribute at India Couture Week

New Delhi, Jul 29 (PTI) – Arjun Rampal paid a heartfelt tribute to his friend, the late designer Rohit Bal during India Couture Week, stepping out as the showstopper for Bal's renowned label. Bal, who was cherished as the rockstar of Indian fashion, passed away at 63 last November. Rampal, adorned in a black sherwani with silver leopard motifs, reminisced fondly about his friend. "Legends never die; they always live on," remarked Rampal. "He was a great guy who continues to be with us, I am sure. He's probably dancing up there and very happy." The essence of Bal’s fashion, he added, was in not taking it seriously but in embracing fun and energy, a philosophy evident in Bal’s creative mastery.

The show, organized by Bal’s brand as an homage, presented the 'Kashgul' collection with garments in cream white, black, and red. It opened with white dresses featuring Bal’s iconic flower embroidery, drawing inspiration from the Gulistan (rose garden). The white gowns were embellished with pearls and gold adorned capes, while male models showcased white sherwanis.

The models graced the runway with Bal's signature red roses in their hair, complemented by minimal makeup, as Noor Mohammed and Alif’s "Ride Home," and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s 'Jiya Dhadak Dhadak Jaye' set the mood. The live choir then transitioned the music to a rendition of Queen's "Another One Bites the Dust" as the color scheme shifted to velvet black. Long dresses and sherwanis dominated the look with models sporting bold red lipstick against black velvet. Black and white gowns with veils added drama to the collection."

The collection paid homage to Bal’s roots in Kashmir, featuring sherwanis with exquisite silver or gold embroidery of cheetahs and leopards. The music later transitioned to Asha Bhosle's "Raat Baaqi Baat Baaqi" as models showcased red velvet lehengas with detailed gold embroidery. The live choir mimicked ABBA’s "Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!" as Rampal took to the runway, honoring his friend with gestures to the sky. The models and the team then joined in a spirited dance to conclude the show, reminiscent of Bal’s customary finale performances.

Sunil Sethi, FDCI council head, remarked, "Arjun, with you walking the ramp at the end, many saw Gudda dancing to this and applauding you.” Praising the show's design team, Rampal acknowledged "Because of him, there are incredible designers who put this show together." Rohit Bal’s team described the event as an ode to his legacy and roots in Kashmir, aiming to reflect his spirit in the presentation.

The India Couture Week, presented by Hyundai India in collaboration with Reliance Brands, is set to conclude on Wednesday.

(Only the headline of this report may have been reworked by Editorji; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)