When Diljit Dosanjh stepped onto the Met Gala 2025 red carpet, it wasn’t just a fashion moment—it was history in motion. The Punjabi superstar made his grand debut at the world’s most iconic fashion event in an ensemble that turned heads and touched hearts, all while paying homage to his roots and folk music legends.
Let’s dive into the meaning behind his “Raja” look, the designer who brought it to life, and who else from India made their debut this year.
Diljit Dosanjh’s Met Gala 2025 Debut: A Regal Homage
Diljit Dosanjh’s appearance at the Met Gala was marked by a distinctive outfit that blended traditional Indian elements with contemporary fashion. While specific details of his attire are not extensively documented, his ensemble was noted for its South Asian-inspired design, aligning with the gala’s emphasis on tailored menswear and cultural representation.
Diljit Dosanjh’s Met Gala 2025 Ensemble: A Detailed Breakdown
- Turban (Pagri): Diljit donned a meticulously tied turban, a symbol of Sikh identity and pride. The turban’s design and color complemented the rest of his ensemble, reinforcing his cultural roots while adding a regal touch to his appearance.
- Embroidered Sherwani: The centerpiece of his outfit was an intricately embroidered sherwani, reflecting the opulence associated with Indian royalty. The garment featured traditional motifs and patterns, showcasing the rich textile heritage of South Asia.
- Traditional Accessories: Adding to the royal aesthetic, Diljit carried a ceremonial sword, a nod to the martial traditions of Punjabi culture and a symbol of honor and valor. This accessory not only enhanced the authenticity of his look but also paid tribute to historical figures like Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala.
Diljit’s ensemble was a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, capturing the essence of the Met Gala’s theme while celebrating his cultural heritage.
Prabal Gurung: The Designer Behind the Ensemble
Prabal Gurung, known for his commitment to diversity and cultural storytelling in fashion, was the creative force behind Diljit’s Met Gala attire. Gurung’s designs often draw inspiration from his Nepalese heritage, and his collaboration with Diljit was no exception. The ensemble showcased Gurung’s ability to fuse traditional South Asian elements with contemporary fashion sensibilities, creating a look that was both culturally resonant and globally appealing.
A Tribute to Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala
Diljit’s Met Gala appearance also served as a tribute to Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala, known for his extravagant style and patronage of the arts. The ceremonial sword and the regal aesthetic of the ensemble echoed the Maharaja’s opulent fashion sense, bringing historical Indian royal fashion to a modern, international platform.
Indian Debuts at Met Gala 2025: A Year of Representation
The 2025 Met Gala witnessed several Indian and South Asian personalities making their debut, highlighting the growing representation of the region in global fashion events. Notably, Bollywood legend Shah Rukh Khan attended the gala for the first time, donning a custom sherwani by Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee. Khan’s ensemble featured a tailored, floor-length coat made from fine Tasmanian wool, accented with Japanese horn buttons, and accessorized with layered talismanic chains, a crystal-studded ‘K’ pendant, a diamond star brooch, multiple rings, and an 18k gold cane adorned with precious stones.
Additionally, Indian designer Manish Malhotra made his Met Gala debut, further emphasizing the event’s embrace of diverse cultural aesthetics. The 2025 Met Gala thus marked a significant moment for Indian representation in global fashion, with Diljit Dosanjh’s debut standing out as a tribute to India’s rich cultural heritage.