The 2025 Met Gala saw a dazzling display of Indian talent, with stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Kiara Advani, and Diljit Dosanjh gracing the iconic steps of New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. Their appearances sparked a mix of praise and criticism, with some fashion enthusiasts celebrating their bold styles, while others coined the term “Chandivalification of Met” to describe the influx of Indian celebrities. This, however, did not sit well with actress Janhvi Kapoor, who took to social media to respond to the critics and tackle what she calls a “classist” attitude toward her country’s representation on the global stage.
Janhvi’s response came in the comment section of a post by popular Instagram account Diet Sabya, which raised questions about the growing presence of Indian figures at the Met Gala and whether it undermines the exclusivity of the event. The actress expressed her strong views, stating it was “high time” for Indian artisans and designers to receive global recognition. “Our artisans and designers are the best in the world,” she wrote, adding that they truly deserve the global spotlight that platforms like the Met provide.
Janhvi further challenged the negative attitude toward Indian representation, asking, “Shouldn’t we be happy we’re finally getting our due instead of salty about how seeing our own people on this platform is making it seem a little less aspirational?” She emphasized that Indian fashion had taken center stage, with the garments worn by celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan and Diljit Dosanjh standing out for their craftsmanship and cultural significance. “Amusing how we’re being almost classist towards ourselves, clearly colonial trauma hasn’t left us,” she added, pointing out the deep-seated prejudices still lingering in some circles.
She also brought attention to the often-overlooked work of Indian artisans, noting that their contributions have long been exported and used globally without proper acknowledgment. “For decades, the work of our artisans has been exported from our country and put on global platforms without credit,” Janhvi explained. She expressed her pride in seeing Indian artists and heritage finally taking their rightful place in the international spotlight, concluding, “The sense of pride I felt seeing our artists and garments at the Met made the whole affair seem even more magical.”
The 2025 Met Gala marked a historic moment for India, with several prominent Indian figures making their debuts on the blue carpet. Shah Rukh Khan’s entrance in a sleek black Sabyasachi ensemble turned heads, while Diljit Dosanjh paid a sartorial tribute to Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, wearing a striking Prabal Gurung outfit that featured a regal cape embroidered with the map of Punjab, celebrating his heritage.
Kiara Advani also made her Met Gala debut, proudly showcasing her baby bump in a gown by Gaurav Gupta. Alongside them, other notable Indian attendees included fashion icons Priyanka Chopra, Manish Malhotra, Natasha Poonawalla, and Isha Ambani, alongside celebrated designers such as Prabal Gurung and Sabyasachi.
The event served as a powerful moment of recognition for India, as its cultural richness and artistic contributions were celebrated on one of the world’s most prestigious fashion stages.
