Shah Rukh Khan, the Bollywood superstar known as SRK, made a historic debut at the 2025 Met Gala, becoming the first male actor from India to grace the prestigious event. His appearance was not just a personal milestone but a significant cultural moment, as he walked the blue carpet in a striking all-black ensemble designed by renowned Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee. The outfit featured a floor-length black wool coat, layered necklaces, and a gem-encrusted tiger head cane, showcasing a blend of traditional Indian craftsmanship and modern elegance.
Khan's debut came amid a politically charged atmosphere, with this year's Met Gala themed "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," which honors the rich history and impact of Black male fashion. The event, which took place on May 5, 2025, raised a record-breaking $31 million for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute, marking the highest gross in the gala's 77-year history.
Despite his global fame, Khan admitted to feeling nervous before the event, stating, "I’ve never been nervous like this," and joked about wanting to run away. This modesty is part of what endears him to his fans, who have followed his career for over three decades. Khan reflected on the emotional connection he shares with his audience, particularly among the Indian diaspora, saying, "It’s not just simple entertainment. I’m a memory from home, though I’m not a memory. The diaspora made me the star I am."
The Met Gala this year was co-chaired by prominent figures including Colman Domingo, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Pharrell Williams, and A$AP Rocky. The event celebrated Black male style and the legacy of Black dandyism, with Khan's presence symbolizing a bridge between cultures and a step towards greater representation in global fashion.
As Khan walked the blue carpet, he encountered an unexpected moment of awkwardness when some international media personnel appeared unfamiliar with his identity, asking, "What is your name?" Khan responded gracefully, "I’m Shah Rukh," a moment that quickly sparked outrage among his fans online, who expressed disbelief that such a global icon could be overlooked.
Alongside Khan, several other notable figures made their Met Gala debuts, including Bollywood actress Kiara Advani, who celebrated her impending motherhood with a stunning gold ensemble designed by Gaurav Gupta. Her gown, titled "Bravehearts," featured sculpted hearts connected by a chain resembling an umbilical cord, symbolizing the bond between mother and child. Advani's appearance was a powerful statement about femininity and transformation, further enriching the cultural tapestry of the event.
Another first-time attendee was SEVENTEEN’s leader S.Coups, who donned a monochromatic grey outfit as a brand ambassador for Hugo Boss, embracing the evening's theme with style. His presence, along with other international stars such as Bad Bunny and BLACKPINK's Lisa, highlighted the gala's status as a global fashion spectacle.
However, Lisa faced backlash for her controversial outfit, which featured the face of civil rights icon Rosa Parks, leading to discussions about cultural sensitivity and the responsibilities of public figures in their fashion choices. This incident underscored the complex interplay of fashion, culture, and social commentary that often accompanies high-profile events like the Met Gala.
Khan, reflecting on his own journey, noted the challenges his children face in the industry, acknowledging the privilege of his fame while emphasizing the importance of humility. He stated, "The privilege part should make them humbler that they have this background. There will always be a shadow. But this path is very difficult."
As he looks to the future, Khan is excited about his upcoming projects, including the film "King," in which he will star alongside his daughter, Suhana Khan, and a Netflix series directed by his son, Aryan Khan. His commitment to advancing Indian cinema and embracing new technologies in filmmaking speaks to his desire to keep evolving within the industry.
In a candid moment, Khan shared his thoughts on the evolution of storytelling in film, stating, "Stories have to be honest but the way they are shown, they will have to become more interesting. I watch most stuff on my telephone here. Why should I go to the theater? It has to be an experience. It has to be Disney World." This forward-thinking approach reflects his understanding of the changing landscape of entertainment and the need for films to engage audiences in innovative ways.
As the night unfolded, Khan struck his signature pose on the blue carpet, reminding everyone why he is affectionately known as the "King Khan." His debut at the Met Gala not only marked a personal achievement but also served as a testament to the growing recognition of Indian talent on the global stage. With his charm, charisma, and commitment to cultural representation, Shah Rukh Khan continues to inspire fans worldwide.
