The 2026 Met Gala, under the captivating theme ‘Costume Art,’ is set to light up the fashion universe on May 4th with a vibrant Indian flair. Anticipation is rising for the appearances of style icons like Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Alia Bhatt, and Isha Ambani.

The Met Gala 2026 will take place on May 4 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, with several Indian celebrities expected to draw attention on the red carpet. Karan Johar is likely to make his debut, while Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Alia Bhatt, Isha Ambani, Natasha Poonawalla and Manish Malhotra are among the Indian names linked to this year’s event. The theme is “Costume Art,” and the dress code is “Fashion Is Art.”

Met Gala 2026 Indian guests and theme

According to India Today, the 2026 guest list has sparked strong interest because of India’s growing presence at the global fashion event. Deepika Padukone, a regular Met Gala name, is expected to return with Ranveer Singh. The couple was recently seen at the airport, which led to fresh talk about their possible appearance.Priyanka Chopra Jonas also remains a key Indian name at the Met Gala. She made her debut in 2017 and has since appeared in looks ranging from feathered Dior to tailored Balmain suits. Her appearances helped bring more attention to Indian stars at the event.Alia Bhatt is another expected name. Her earlier Met Gala looks included a pearl-heavy Prabal Gurung outfit and a mint Sabyasachi saree with a long train. Both looks highlighted Indian craft, textiles and embroidery on a global stage.

Karan Johar’s Met Gala debut and where to watch

Karan Johar’s possible Met Gala debut has added fresh attention to the Indian lineup. Reports suggest he could wear a custom Manish Malhotra look that matches the “Fashion Is Art” dress code. Johar had cheered for Shah Rukh Khan, Diljit Dosanjh, Kiara Advani and Manish Malhotra at the 2025 edition.Shah Rukh Khan and Kiara Advani also made strong impressions last year. SRK wore a regal Sabyasachi suit, while Kiara chose a sculptural Gaurav Gupta gown. India’s Met Gala journey has moved from safer Western looks to stronger Indian statements, including sarees, sherwanis, turbans, kirpans and detailed handwork.Indian viewers can watch the Met Gala 2026 red carpet live on Vogue’s YouTube channel from around 3:30 am IST on May 5. The event will be co-chaired by Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, Venus Williams and Anna Wintour, with Lisa on the host committee.