The Indian contingent at this year’s MET Gala in New York City came out in full force on May 6, 2025, showcasing a dazzling array of fashion choices that turned heads and broke hearts. Among the attendees were Bollywood stars Shah Rukh Khan, Diljit Dosanjh, Kiara Advani, and Priyanka Chopra, alongside renowned designers Manish Malhotra and Sabyasachi Mukherjee. However, it was filmmaker Karan Johar’s social media commentary that sparked conversations, particularly due to his omission of Priyanka Chopra from his praises.
Karan Johar, known for his keen eye for fashion, took to Instagram to celebrate the standout looks of his friends from the Indian film industry. He posted a series of stories highlighting the achievements of Shah Rukh Khan, Diljit Dosanjh, Kiara Advani, and Manish Malhotra, while notably leaving out Chopra, who attended the gala with her husband, singer-actor Nick Jonas.
Johar’s enthusiasm for Shah Rukh was palpable. He described the actor’s appearance as historic, noting that he was the first Indian male actor to walk the MET Gala red carpet. Dressed in a custom Sabyasachi suit, complete with a tiger sceptre and a striking diamond 'K' pendant, Shah Rukh made a powerful statement. Karan gushed, stating, “ALLL HAIL the KING of the MET. The internet just broke into a gazillion hearts!!!!! @iamsrk .... bhai you RULE!”
Meanwhile, Diljit Dosanjh made a memorable debut at the gala, donning a regal Maharaja-inspired outfit designed by Prabal Gurung. His ensemble, which included a long cape adorned with the map of Punjab and the Gurmukhi alphabet, showcased his heritage beautifully. Karan praised Diljit, calling him “Fashion royalty! Always on point!” and a “forever fashionista.”
Kiara Advani, who is expecting her first child, also made her MET Gala debut in a breathtaking black gown by Gaurav Gupta. The gown featured a sculpted design that accentuated her baby bump, paired with a golden breastplate that symbolically represented her unborn child. Johar was equally impressed, stating, “Loot this beauty!!!!! So stunning KI!!!!! Mommy glow and fashion to bestow!!”
Manish Malhotra, a prominent designer, also stole the spotlight with his dramatic black overcoat shrug, detailed with ornate gold embroidery. Karan couldn’t help but express his admiration, calling it “The debut of all debuts. Manish Malhotra at the MET!! Drama, design and power.”
Despite the excitement surrounding the event, the absence of Priyanka Chopra from Johar’s praises did not go unnoticed. Chopra, who wore a striking polka-dot gown designed by Olivier Rousteing for Balmain, perfectly aligned with the gala's theme of 'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.' Her look was complemented by a sharp black hat, making her a standout on the red carpet.
Over the years, Johar and Chopra have had a complicated relationship, often marred by speculation of a feud. Their history dates back to 2012 when Karan tweeted comments that many believed were directed at Priyanka, hinting at tensions between them. In recent interviews, Chopra has expressed feeling cornered in Bollywood, stating, “I had people not casting me, I had beef with people, I am not good at playing that game so I kind of was tired of the politics and I said I needed a break.”
As the MET Gala continues to be a platform for celebrities to showcase their fashion statements, the dynamics of friendship and rivalry in the industry remain ever-present. Karan Johar’s selective praise might reflect deeper currents within Bollywood, where relationships can be as intricate as the designs seen on the red carpet.
In conclusion, while the night was a celebration of fashion and culture, it also served as a reminder of the complexities of relationships in the entertainment industry. The MET Gala 2025 not only highlighted the talents of Indian celebrities but also underscored the nuances of their interactions, both on and off the red carpet.
