A Pillar of India’s Luxury Retail Landscape
Darshan Mehta, the founding Managing Director and CEO of Reliance Brands Limited (RBL), passed away on Wednesday in his 60s, according to multiple media reports. He was a key architect behind the retail empire led by Isha Ambani and played a transformative role in shaping India’s luxury and premium fashion market. His death marks the end of an era in India’s evolving retail sector.
Mehta had a long and distinguished career with Reliance Brands, a subsidiary of Reliance Retail Ventures. Since the company’s inception in 2007, he led its expansion from a fledgling venture into one of India’s top platforms for global fashion, lifestyle, and luxury labels. Under his leadership, RBL introduced and built partnerships with renowned international brands, giving Indian consumers access to premium global offerings.
Leadership Legacy and Continued Mentorship
After nearly 16 years at the helm of RBL, Darshan Mehta stepped down from the role of Managing Director and CEO in November 2023. He transitioned to a non-executive director position on the company’s board while also embracing a mentorship role within the broader Reliance Group. His focus shifted to nurturing future leadership and guiding strategic growth as the group continued to scale its footprint in domestic and global retail markets.
Known for his strategic vision and sharp business acumen, Mehta’s influence extended well beyond day-to-day operations. He was recognized as a key figure in the rise of Reliance Retail under Isha Ambani’s leadership, contributing immensely to the group’s reputation for bringing top-tier global brands to Indian shores. Even after stepping down from executive duties, Darshan Mehta remained a trusted advisor and thought leader within the organization.
A Career Rooted in Retail Excellence
Before joining Reliance Industries, Darshan Mehta had already established a formidable presence in India’s retail space. He was a chartered accountant by profession and previously served as president of Arvind Brands Ltd, a well-known homegrown apparel retail company. His career was marked by a deep understanding of consumer behavior, branding, and market trends, which he seamlessly leveraged to create long-lasting retail partnerships.
Throughout his professional journey, Mehta remained a quiet force behind the scenes—driving innovation, empowering teams, and pushing boundaries in India’s retail transformation. Though not always in the public eye, his contributions laid the groundwork for one of the most successful luxury retail ecosystems in the country.
As tributes pour in from across the industry, Darshan Mehta is remembered not just for his business achievements, but also for his mentorship, humility, and commitment to excellence. His legacy is certain to endure in the continued growth of Reliance Brands and the leaders he inspired throughout his career.
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