The Blenders Pride events in Gurugram began with what might be the most emotional en vogue fashion moment of 2025—Sonam Kapoor’s heartfelt tribute to the late Rohit Bal. The actress walked the runway with tears, honouring the designer who had dressed her for years. The crowd gave her an ovation as she paused, hands folded, remembering her friend.
This wasn’t just another fashion show but a celebration of Bal’s 63-year legacy.
The Blenders Pride events team transformed Le Méridien into a dreamy tribute, with lotus motifs (his signature symbol), Kashmiri-inspired decor, and even his favourite rose-scented fragrance filling the air. Over 100 of his closest friends, from Bollywood stars to fashion legends, walked in his archival designs, making it a night no one would forget.
A Fashion Show That Felt Like a Hug
When Sonam Kapoor walked the runway at the Blenders Pride events in Gurugram, nobody expected tissues would be needed. But as the first notes of a haunting Sufi melody played, and she appeared in Rohit Bal’s iconic white Anarkali, the air changed. This wasn’t just another en vogue fashion moment but a tribute to Indian fashion’s brightest star.
The delicate peacock embroidery on her outfit caught the light with every step. Those who knew Bal’s work recognized it immediately, as well as his signature style and passion for Indian craftsmanship. Sonam, who had been his muse for years, held her composure until the final turn. Some cheered. Some cried. All understood they were witnessing something rare in fashion: pure, unfiltered emotion.
Why Did This Blenders Pride Event Hit Different?
The magic of this en vogue fashion experience came from its perfect balance:
The clothes: Archival pieces from Bal’s private collection that hadn’t been seen in years
The music: Live renditions of Bal’s favourite classical compositions
The setting: A venue transformed with his beloved lotus motifs and Kashmiri influences
The people: 100+ friends and colleagues wearing his designs with pride
Unlike typical Blenders Pride events, this wasn’t about trends or selling collections. Every detail whispered the same message: “We remember.” This was fashion as a memorial, from the rose attar perfuming the air (his signature scent) to the Kashmiri wazwan served post-show (his comfort food).
Sonam Kapoor: More Than Just a Showstopper
This walk redefined what that means when we talk about Sonam Kapoor en vogue moments. She was channelling memories. The way she:
Paused to touch the embroidery
Adjusted her drape
These weren’t rehearsed moves. This was a friend honouring a friend. Backstage, she shared how Bal would critique her walks, always pushing for perfection. That night, she gave him her best.
The Details That Made It Special
The Blenders Pride events team outdid themselves with touches that would’ve made Bal smile:
The rotating lotus runway: Each of the 63 petals represented a year of his life
The memory wall: Where guests pinned handwritten notes about their favourite Bal moments
The after-party playlist: Curated from songs Bal played during his legendary atelier parties
Even the en vogue fashion press, usually jaded, found themselves caught up in the emotion.
Why This Matters Beyond Fashion
In an industry obsessed with “what’s next,” this Blenders Pride events showcase dared to ask: “What lasts?” The answer came through in every element:
Craftsmanship: Those intricate hand-embroideries can’t be rushed or replicated by machines
Friendship: The bonds between designer and muse, artist and patron
Legacy: How one man’s vision continues to shape Indian fashion
This en vogue fashion moment ensured Rohit Bal’s light keeps shining.
The Unexpected Showstopper
The biggest surprise was when Bal’s elderly tailor, who had worked with him for 40 years, took his first-ever runway walk. Dressed in a simple ivory kurta Bal had designed for him years ago, the quiet craftsman received the night’s most extended ovation. At that moment, the Blenders Pride events philosophy became clear: true style isn’t about the front row; it’s about honouring everyone who helps create the magic.
What’s Next for En Vogue Fashion?
If this show taught us anything, the future of en vogue fashion needs more of this heart. As the industry races toward AI designs and digital runways, the Gurugram event proved technology can’t replicate human connection. The tears were real, the memories were raw, and the love was palpable. Other Blenders Pride events this season showcased innovation and glamour. But this one? This one showcased soul.
Conclusion
As the lights dimmed and Sonam took her final walk arm-in-arm with Bal’s brother, something remarkable happened. The crowd didn’t just applaud, they stood in silence. There were no phones, no chatter, just quiet respect for what had been and what would always be.
That’s the power of en vogue fashion at its best. It’s not just clothes. It’s not just shows. It’s keeping legends alive, one stitch at a time.
The Blenders Pride events team promised “The One and Only.” They delivered an event and an experience that redefined what fashion can mean when it comes from the heart.
