Meet the Indian guests of Gala 2026: Deepika and Priyanka to KJo. when and where to watch
There is curiosity among Indian guests before the Met Gala 2026 to be held on May 4. Apart from Karan Johar, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Alia Bhatt and others are expected to attend the global fashion event.
The Met Gala 2026 guest list is expected to be dominated by filmmaker Karan Johar’s debut and other Indian biggies at fashion’s biggest night on May 4, 2026. With the theme “Costume Art” and dress code “Fashion is Art”, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Alia Bhatt, Isha Ambani and Natasha Poonawalla are expected to make artistic, culturally rich statements.
Will Deepika, Priyanka and Alia return to Met Gala?
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According to reports, Deepika Padukone, who is a frequent presence at the Met Gala, is likely to return with her husband Ranveer Singh. Recently spotted at the airport, the power couple has fueled attendance rumors, evolving from safe silhouettes to bold, sculptural looks that blend Indian artistry with global glamour. Deepika’s journey – from minimalist Tommy Hilfiger to architectural Zac Posen creations – reflects Bollywood’s growing confidence.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas remains the pioneer who opened the doors for Indian representation. Since its debut in 2017, PC has consistently owned the carpet with dramatic flair, from feathered Dior moments to tailored Balmain suits, setting the bar for Indian celebrities at the event.
Another strong name to expect is Alia Bhatt, who is known for celebrating Indian craftsmanship. Her pearl-heavy Prabal Gurung and show-stopping mint Sabyasachi sari with its huge train highlighted indigenous textiles and embroidery on the world stage.
KJo’s Met Gala debut
Karan Johar’s Met Gala 2026 debut adds new excitement. Filmmakers who were cheering for Shah Rukh Khan, Diljit Dosanjh, Kiara Advani and Manish Malhotra in 2025 are now coming into the limelight themselves. Reports suggest that he may be collaborating with Manish Malhotra for a custom look that matches his edgy style and “fashion is art” theme.
Business icons and fashion influencers are set to enrich the Indian guest list. Isha Ambani and Natasha Poonawalla bring luxury, cultural pride and modern elegance. After his impressive presence in 2025, the presence of Manish Malhotra further strengthens the designer contingent.
Shahrukh’s royal look and India’s Met Gala story
There is also speculation about the possible return or debut of Shah Rukh Khan and Kiara Advani, who made a strong impression last year. SRK’s regal Sabyasachi suit and Kiara’s sculptural Gaurav Gupta gown elevated Indian narratives to the global stage.
India’s Met Gala story has changed dramatically. Early looks leaned western and safe, but recent years have celebrated Desi pride through Sabyasachi sarees, Prabal Gurung sherwanis, intricate handcrafts and heritage elements like turbans and kirpans. From Priyanka Chopra Jonas to Alia Bhatt’s textile tributes to Diljit Dosanjh’s royal traditional attire, Indian stars now seek attention rather than blending in.
This year’s “Art of Clothing” theme is a perfect fit for India’s rich couture history – where fashion has always been a wearable art. Expect guests to interpret the brief through heavy embellishments, sculptural curtains and a fusion that honors both Indian heritage and contemporary creativity.
When and where to watch Met Gala 2026
Indian viewers can watch the red carpet live on Vogue’s YouTube channel at 6:00 PM EDT (3:30 AM IST on May 5). Co-chairs Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, Venus Williams and Anna Wintour, with Lisa on the hosting committee, promise a star-studded event.
As anticipation reaches fever pitch, all eyes will be on how this diverse group transforms “Fashion Is Art” into unforgettable, culturally-resonating moments.