Rohit Bal’s show in trouble [Hindustan Times, New Delhi]

July 23--NEW DELHI -- Lights, cameras, cops! The second day of the Delhi Couture Week was high on drama as the police almost played spoilsport for ace designer Rohit Bal's show.

Bal's off-site show was scheduled to start at 9.30 pm at the Aman hotel, while the pre-show cocktail party was to be held at 8.30 pm. However, at 8.40 pm, cops barged in and asked the organisers to stop the show and shut down all lights, because due permission had not been taken to hold the show by the poolside.

Bal, who recently suffered a heart attack, almost broke down in panic. Pacing up and down at the venue, he was frantically trying to call the Deputy Commissioner of Police-South to get necessary clearances. "Gudda called me around 9.30 and broke down, saying, 'Sunil, I need you here. I have just recovered and I might just collapse again," said Sethi. Clarifying FDCI's position, Sethi said, "The license had to be applied for by the designer or the hotel. FDCI is not responsible for procuring those licences. We just grant permission for off-site shows."

Sethi also hinted at foul play. "A few people who are not a part of FDCI or the Couture Week are working against the success of the event. No controversies please!"

Finally, after much fuss, the show started at 10.30 pm. HT City learned from the police officials at the venue that the hotel and the designer's representative have been fined. "The court will decide the fine amount. However, since the designer's reputation was at stake, we let the show go on," said a police official, on condition of anonymity.

Before the show, Bal said, "I am still recovering from the jolt. I don't know what that was all about." At the show, guests were seen jostling for seats. Former Indian cricket team captain Mohammad Azharudduin was seen trying to secure a front row seat, but couldn't. "I would rather stand," he said, and left mid-way, visibly upset.

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