Mehta was an important figure in India’s luxury retail sector, serving as the founding CEO and managing director of Reliance Brands Limited (RBL). He died on 9 April 2025 in Mumbai due to a sudden cardiac arrest, at the age of 64.
Mehta became RBL’s first employee in 2007 and led the company from its inception. Under his leadership, RBL partnered with over 80 global brands, including Bottega Veneta, Superdry, Balenciaga and Jimmy Choo, significantly influencing India’s luxury retail and consumer experience.
https://digitalinternational.in/
Before joining Reliance, Mehta was the president of Arvind Brands Ltd, where he played a key role in bringing Tommy Hilfiger to India. He was also behind the acquisition of London-based toy giant O4 Hamleys Global Holdings for over Rs 600 crore in 2019.
In November 2024, Mehta transitioned from his role as managing director to become a non-executive director on RBL’s board and took on a mentorship role within the Reliance Group. His sudden passing has left the Indian retail industry in shock, with many
https://digitalinternational.in/
acknowledging his significant contributions to shaping India’s modern luxury retail landscape.
DIGI MARCH STORE PRINT ON DEMAND
1: The First Employee – Darshan Mehta’s Leap of Faith
In 2007, when Reliance Brands Limited was nothing more than another idea, Darshan Mehta took a leap of faith. As the first employee and founding CEO, he ventured into uncharted territory with a vision that would
redefine luxury retail in India. What began as a one-man mission soon turned into a powerhouse representing over 80 global fashion and lifestyle brands.
https://digitalinternational.in/
Mehta wasn’t just building a company — he was creating a lifestyle. He understood that India’s emerging user class was ready for more than just domestic labels. They were hungry for identity and global experiences. From
Bottega Veneta to Jimmy Choo, Balenciaga to Superdry, Mehta didn’t just bring brands to India — he made them relevant.
Comment:
