Darshan Mehta, the former Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Reliance Brands Limited (RBL), tragically passed away following a heart attack while working out on a treadmill at Taj Hyderabad. His sudden demise has shocked the fashion and retail industry, where he was a leading figure. Mehta played a pivotal role in the growth and development of India’s premium and luxury retail landscape. As a fashion and retail veteran, he was instrumental in shaping the country’s luxury ecosystem and driving the expansion of Reliance Brands. Mehta was among the first employees of RBL when it was established in 2007, and his contributions were central to the company’s success.
Under Mehta’s leadership, RBL expanded its portfolio to over 50 international brands, including prestigious names such as Brooks Brothers, Burberry, Hamleys, Hugo Boss, Hunkemoller, Jimmy Choo, Kate Spade New York, Michael Kors, Steve Madden, Superdry, Scotch & Soda, Tiffany & Co., and Tory Burch. The company also invested in Indian designer labels, including Raghavendra Rathore, Manish Malhotra, Rahul Mishra, Anamika Khanna, Abraham & Thakore, Abu Jani & Sandeep Khosla, and Ritu Kumar.
Despite the challenging financial environment, Mehta’s leadership steered Reliance Brands through various challenges. In August 2024, RBL reported mixed financial results. Although the company saw a 13% increase in total revenue, reaching ₹2,303 crore for FY24, its losses widened by 55%, from ₹185.16 crore in FY23 to ₹288.4 crore in FY24. Brands such as Diesel Fashion India and Paul & Shark, which are under RBL’s control, struggled to achieve profitability despite the increase in sales.