Daijiworld Media Network – New York
New York, May 5: Filmmaker Karan Johar made a memorable debut at the Met Gala 2026, turning heads with a custom-designed outfit by ace designer Manish Malhotra, inspired by the timeless works of legendary Indian artist Raja Ravi Varma.
Titled ‘Framed in Eternity’, the ensemble featured Johar in a vintage-style jacket paired with a hand-painted cape, drawing from iconic Ravi Varma paintings such as Lady with the Peach, Hamsa Damayanti, Kadambari, Arjuna and Subhadra, and There Comes Papa. The look aligned seamlessly with this year’s theme, “Costume Art,” and dress code, “Fashion is Art.”
Speaking about his outfit, Johar said he aimed to present something deeply personal rather than symbolic. “I didn’t want to arrive here trying to explain India. I wanted to arrive feeling like myself… and that automatically brings everything I come from with it,” he noted. He added that Ravi Varma’s art resonated with his cinematic vision, saying, “Ravi Varma painted feelings.”
Describing the look as an extension of his identity, Johar said it was “my way of wearing that inheritance… not with a concept, but with a feeling I’ve carried my whole life.”
Ahead of his appearance, videos from outside his hotel showed enthusiastic fans cheering as Johar greeted them with a ‘Namaste’ and posed for photographs before heading to the venue.
On the Met Gala carpet, the filmmaker received widespread acclaim online, with several netizens hailing him as one of the best-dressed attendees of the evening. Social media was flooded with praise, with users calling his look “stunning,” “divine,” and a standout representation of Indian fashion on the global stage.
According to reports, the intricate outfit was crafted over 85 days by more than 80 artisans and featured detailed hand-painted elements. Johar completed the look with a multi-gemstone necklace and rings from his jewellery label, Tyaani.
His debut has been widely seen as a strong statement of Indian artistry and craftsmanship at one of fashion’s most prestigious global events.