Darshan Mehta: The Man Who Transformed Indian Luxury Retail
India’s retail and fashion world was hit with heartbreaking news this week: Darshan Mehta, the former MD & CEO of Reliance Brands Ltd (RBL) and a true game-changer in the luxury space, passed away at 64 after a sudden heart attack during a trip to Hyderabad.
Known for his powerful vision and unshakable commitment to elevating India’s fashion and lifestyle ecosystem, Darshan Mehta’s death marks the end of an iconic chapter. He wasn’t just a corporate executive—he was the man who redefined what luxury means to Indian consumers.
Let’s take you through his extraordinary life, legacy, and the major milestones that shaped his journey.
From Accountant to Architect of Indian Luxury Retail
Darshan Mehta’s professional journey is a testament to how a strong foundation in finance can evolve into leadership in fashion and retail. Here’s a quick look at the key milestones in his career that shaped him into a transformative business leader:
| Timeline & Company | Role & Contribution |
|---|---|
| Early 1980s – PriceWaterhouse, Mumbai | Completed articleship; built a strong foundation in finance and business analysis. |
| 1984–2007 – Lalbhai Group (Arvind Ltd) | Served for 23 years, rising through the ranks and gaining leadership experience. |
| 2001–2007 – Arvind Brands | President; introduced global sportswear brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Gant, and Nautica to India. |
Building Reliance Brands from the Ground Up
In 2007, Darshan Mehta joined Reliance Industries with a blank canvas—and painted a masterpiece. As the first employee and later MD & CEO of Reliance Brands, he created an empire that partnered with over 60 global fashion and lifestyle labels.
He wasn’t just launching stores—he was creating cultural bridges between global luxury and Indian aspiration.
10 Powerful Milestones in Darshan Mehta’s Career
1. First Employee, Massive Empire
Mehta proudly referred to himself as Reliance Brands’ “Employee No. 1.” Under his leadership, the company grew to 750 corporate staff and over 5,000 employees in stores nationwide.
2. Bringing Global Luxury to Indian Streets
He introduced Indian consumers to names like Armani, Valentino, Balenciaga, Jimmy Choo, Zegna, Burberry, Steve Madden, Muji, and Pottery Barn.
3. Empowering Indian Designers
Beyond global labels, Mehta spotlighted Indian talent. Under his vision, RBL partnered with designers like Manish Malhotra, Rahul Mishra, Anamika Khanna, Abu Jani & Sandeep Khosla, Ritu Kumar, and Raghavendra Rathore, giving them both local and international exposure.
4. The Hamleys Takeover
In 2019, he steered Reliance’s acquisition of the UK-based toy chain Hamleys, cementing the brand’s global footprint.
5. Pioneering Retail Spaces: Jio World Drive & Plaza
Mehta envisioned and launched Jio World Drive and Jio World Plaza in Mumbai—luxury shopping destinations that rival top fashion streets globally.
6. Runner and Trekker at Heart
Despite his high-profile job, Mehta lived a balanced life. He was an avid runner and Himalayan trekker, always speaking about how nature grounded him.
7. Mentor at the Top
In November 2023, he stepped down as MD to become a non-executive director, taking on a mentor’s role while preparing the next line of leadership.
8. Passion Over Profits
RBL’s revenue in FY24 hit Rs 2,303 crore, up 13% YoY. But the company posted a 55% increase in losses (Rs 288.4 crore). Mehta focused on building long-term value over short-term profits.
9. Resilience During Industry Shifts
While the global fashion industry saw disruption post-COVID, Mehta was quick to adapt with strategic alliances and digital-first models.
10. Leadership with Heart
He wasn’t just admired—he was loved by his team. Known for his humility and clarity, he inspired a generation of professionals in fashion, retail, and beyond.
Why Darshan Mehta’s Legacy Matters
Darshan Mehta didn’t just import brands—he introduced aspirations. In a country where luxury was once a foreign concept, he made it feel familiar, desirable, and attainable.
His work helped shape a new generation of luxury-conscious Indian consumers while ensuring Indian design had a seat at the global table.
A Final Farewell
His sudden passing is not just a personal loss to his family and colleagues, but a professional one to the industry he helped build. At just 64, Darshan Mehta had so much more to offer—but what he’s already accomplished will echo through time.
What’s Next for Reliance Brands?
With Mehta’s mentoring role now a memory, eyes will be on how Reliance Brands adapts its strategy. Will they continue to balance global brand partnerships with Indian fashion investments? Will they double down on luxury experiences like Jio World Plaza?
Whatever happens next, Darshan Mehta’s blueprint remains the foundation.
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Final Words
Darshan Mehta was more than a CEO—he was a dreamer, doer, and disruptor.
He changed the way India shops, dresses, and dreams. And even in his absence, the luxury and lifestyle retail industry in India will continue to benefit from the seeds he planted.
Think Darshan Mehta’s impact deserves more recognition?
Share this story and help celebrate the incredible legacy of a man who reshaped India’s luxury and fashion retail landscape. From bringing global brands like Burberry and Armani to Indian shores, to supporting homegrown designers on international platforms, Darshan Mehta’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.
By spreading his story, you’re not just remembering a visionary leader — you’re honoring the evolution of India’s retail industry. Let’s ensure his contributions continue to inspire future generations.
Share, comment, and let the world know who Darshan Mehta truly was.
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