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Darshan Mehta, the former Managing Director and CEO of Reliance Brands Limited (RBL), has passed away, marking the end of an era in India’s luxury and premium retail space. He was in his 60s. Mehta was not just an executive—he was the strategic mind behind the brand expansion of Reliance Retail Ventures under the leadership of Isha Ambani.
Mehta had stepped down from his active leadership role in November 2024, taking on a non-executive position on RBL’s board and focusing on mentorship within the broader Reliance ecosystem.
From Chartered Accountant to Retail Architect
Darshan Mehta’s journey was rooted in deep financial expertise. A Chartered Accountant by qualification, he began his professional career in the early 1980s at PwC India, where he completed his articleship in 1984. His trajectory moved steadily upward as he joined the Lalbhai Group as CFO, and later took leadership roles at:
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Trikaya Grey Advertising (India) – as Chief Financial Officer
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Arvind Brands – as Chief Executive Officer
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VF Arvind Brands – as CEO from 2006 to 2007
It was in 2007, however, that Mehta made his most transformative move by joining Reliance Industries Limited, where he spearheaded the launch of Reliance Brands Limited.
The Man Behind India’s Luxury Retail Transformation
Under Mehta's visionary leadership, Reliance Brands became a powerhouse in the premium and luxury fashion industry. He was instrumental in bringing over 90 global brands to the Indian market, forging strategic partnerships with names such as:
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Balenciaga
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Bottega Veneta
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Jimmy Choo
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Tory Burch
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Tiffany & Co.
These collaborations were key to making international luxury accessible to Indian consumers, helping position Reliance as a dominant player in the fashion and lifestyle space.
Isha Ambani’s Leadership and Mehta’s Mentorship
Post his exit as CEO, Mehta transitioned into a mentor role, guiding the next generation of leaders—most notably, Isha Ambani, who now spearheads Reliance Retail Ventures. His strategic insights and hands-on experience were invaluable in grooming her leadership and in scaling operations across retail verticals.
This seamless succession and transition of leadership exemplified Mehta’s belief in legacy building and sustainable growth.
His Impact Beyond Business
Beyond corporate success, Mehta was widely respected in the Indian fashion and business community for his keen market insight, humility, and leadership ethics. Colleagues remember him as a visionary with a human touch—someone who could blend business logic with a sense of cultural identity, understanding how international brands should be tailored for the Indian psyche.
He often spoke about “glocalization”—global brands with local relevance—a principle he embedded into Reliance Brands' DNA.
Final Farewell and Industry Tributes
Tributes have begun to pour in from business leaders, fashion icons, and retail industry experts. Many called him a “retail revolutionary”, who shaped not just a business model, but also modern India's fashion aspirations.
“Darshan was a mentor, a friend, and a relentless innovator. His contributions will be felt for decades,” said a senior Reliance Retail official in a statement.
Key Milestones in Darshan Mehta’s Career
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1980s: Began career with PwC
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1990s: Held leadership roles in Arvind Brands and advertising firms
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2006: CEO of VF Arvind Brands
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2007: Became founding CEO of Reliance Brands
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2024: Stepped down to become non-executive director and mentor
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2025: Passed away, leaving behind a monumental retail legacy
Conclusion: A Legacy That Redefined Indian Retail
Darshan Mehta’s passing marks a solemn moment for India’s business landscape. His vision helped transform Indian consumer culture, introduced luxury brands to the masses, and prepared Reliance Retail for its next chapter under Isha Ambani.
His journey from a Chartered Accountant to the pioneer of luxury retail in India is a testament to strategic brilliance, patience, and a deep understanding of global business ecosystems. His legacy will live on in the retail corridors of every Indian metro.