Darshan Mehta dies: Who was right hand of Isha Ambani, close aide of Mukesh Ambani, brain behind Rs 8 Lakh crore empire of Reliance Brands?

Darshan Mehta was a close aide of Mukesh Ambani and a well-known face in the retail industry who brought many global brands to India.

Published: April 10, 2025, 6:42 PM IST

Darshan Mehta, was a big  figure in India’s luxury retail industry and former President and CEO of Reliance Brands Limited (RBL), passed away on April 9, 2025, in his 60s. 

Mehta started as a chartered accountant at Price Waterhouse and then joined Trikaya Grey Advertising, where he developed  his branding and marketing skills. Then he joined Arvind Brands Limited (2001-2007) as a leader. Mehta introduced global sportswear brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Nautica, and Gant to India.

In 2007, Mukesh Ambani took Mehta to a critical role at the newly established Reliance Brands Limited, led by Isha Ambani Piramal. Mehta became RBL’s first employee. Over the years, RBL grew under his leadership and reached a valuation of Rs 8.381 lakh crore, with 750 corporate employees and 5,000 retail staff.

Darshan Mehta also brought global brands under this company like Valentino, Versace, Armani, Bottega Veneta, Coach, Jimmy Choo, and Pottery Barn in India. 

In November 2024, Mehta stepped down as President and CEO of RBL and started grooming the next generation of leaders. He continued as a non-executive director on the RBL board to help the company’s current leaders. According to a report by Fortune, Darshan Mehta was trying out his luck in investing and was happy with everything that he was learning in new trade. 

Darshan Mehta’s sudden demise gave a shock to the retail sector. Tributes were paid to him from different industries. Darshan Mehta is survived by his wife and son. 

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