Several Indian celebrities made a striking impression at the Met Gala, showcasing traditional and contemporary fashion that celebrates their heritage.
The Met Gala, an annual fundraising gala for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, is renowned for its extravagant fashion statements and celebrity appearances. This year, several Indian personalities graced the event, each presenting a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern design.
Punjabi musician Diljit Dosanj turned heads in a “Desi Dandy” ensemble crafted by renowned designer Prabal Gurung. His outfit featured a custom ivory and gold sherwani paired with a tehmat, a traditional draped lower garment. Completing the look was a stunning cape adorned with intricate embroidery, including a detailed map of Punjab. Dosanj’s traditional turban was embellished with a lion-headed, jewel-studded kirpan, symbolizing Sikh pride and regal power. His look drew inspiration from Maharajah Bhupinder Singh of Patiala and was accessorized with exquisite jewelry from Golecha Jewels.
Making her Met Gala debut, Indian model Bhavitha Mandava, who is Chanel’s first Indian brand ambassador, wore a custom ensemble that sparked conversation. Her outfit consisted of a sheer beige chiffon blouse and straight-leg pants that, while appearing simple, were crafted from haute couture silk-muslin with a “blue denim effect.” The creation reportedly took 250 hours in Chanel’s ateliers and was a high-fashion interpretation of the outfit she wore when she was scouted on a New York City subway platform in 2024.
British actress Ashley Simone, known for her roles in “Bridgerton” and the upcoming “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” made a bold statement in a striking custom gown by Stella McCartney. The nearly-naked silver minidress was sustainable, made from 70% repurposed Falabella chains and threads sourced from McCartney’s London atelier. She accessorized her look with diamond pieces from De Beers, adding a touch of elegance to her daring outfit.
Hyderabad’s billionaire philanthropist Sudha Reddy showcased her commitment to South Indian heritage by donning a custom “Tree of Life” couture piece designed by Manish Malhotra. This stunning outfit celebrated the centuries-old textile art form of Kalamkari and required an impressive 3,459 hours of work by 90 artisans. The design was developed in collaboration with global celebrity stylist Mariel Haenn, emphasizing the rich cultural narrative behind the garment.
Isha Ambani, daughter of billionaire industrialists Mukesh and Nita Ambani, made a grand entrance in a custom saree by Gaurav Gupta. The saree paid homage to India’s artistic heritage, featuring a blouse embellished with over 1,000 diamonds and precious stones, totaling more than 1,800 carats. Crafted by 40 artisans from across India, Ambani’s look was a testament to the country’s rich craftsmanship and artistry.
Indian filmmaker Karan Johar also made a statement at the gala, wearing a custom-designed outfit by Manish Malhotra titled “Framed in Eternity.” This striking ensemble featured a structured jacket paired with a dramatic six-foot hand-painted cape. The design drew inspiration from the works of legendary Indian painter Raja Ravi Varma and showcased intricate Zardozi embroidery and 3D imaging. The creation process took approximately 86 days, involving around 5,800 hours of labor by skilled artisans.
These appearances at the Met Gala not only highlighted the individual styles of these celebrities but also served as a celebration of Indian culture and craftsmanship on a global stage. The fusion of traditional elements with contemporary fashion continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, showcasing the rich tapestry of India’s artistic heritage.
According to India Currents, the Met Gala remains a platform for celebrities to express their identities and cultural backgrounds through fashion.