Darshan Mehta, the visionary who transformed India’s luxury retail landscape as Reliance Brands’ leader for 17 years, passed away Wednesday from a sudden heart attack.
As Managing Director and CEO until November 2024, Mehta orchestrated Reliance’s partnerships with prestigious global brands including Valentino, Balenciaga, Tiffany & Co., and Burberry. His strategic vision established premier retail destinations like Jio World Drive and Jio World Plaza in Mumbai, while also steering Reliance’s acquisition of iconic toy retailer Hamleys.
After stepping down from executive duties last year, Mehta had continued serving as a non-executive director while mentoring talent within the Reliance Group. His industry influence extended far beyond his Reliance tenure, having previously held leadership positions at Arvind Brands where he introduced Tommy Hilfiger and Gant to Indian consumers.
“Darshan fundamentally changed how Indians experience luxury retail,” noted a prominent industry observer. “He understood both global brand positioning and Indian consumer psychology, creating partnerships that elevated the entire market.”
Mehta’s legacy includes not only international brand collaborations but also nurturing relationships with prominent Indian designers, establishing a more balanced luxury ecosystem in the country’s retail sector.
Business leaders across India have expressed condolences, recognizing Mehta’s profound impact on the nation’s retail evolution.
