Karan Johar is rumored to make his debut at the Met Gala in 2026, joining a strong Indian contingent that includes regular attendee Natasha Poonawalla and celebrated fashion designer Manish Malhotra. The event is scheduled for May 4, 2026, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in Manhattan.
Theme and Dress Code
The 2026 Met Gala theme is 'Costume Art,' with a dress code of 'Fashion Is Art.' This unique showcase will feature approximately 200 garments alongside 200 art objects, exploring fashion as an embodied art form.
Indian Contingent
According to a report by Variety India, Karan Johar will attend alongside Natasha Poonawalla and Manish Malhotra. The filmmaker is expected to wear a custom outfit created by Malhotra for the star-studded event, though an official announcement is still awaited.
The report further stated, 'It would be interesting to see KJo at Met Gala as he is quite fashionable and never hesitates to experiment with his sartorial choices.' Johar is no stranger to the conversation around fashion's biggest night. Known for his bold sartorial choices, he has long engaged with the Met Gala from afar, publicly praising Indian celebrities who have walked the iconic steps of the Met.
Johar publicly praised the appearances of Shah Rukh Khan, Diljit Dosanjh, and Kiara Advani at previous editions of the gala. The 2025 edition marked a landmark moment for Indian representation, with Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan making his debut at the Met Gala in Sabyasachi's all-black creation.
Other Expected Indian Attendees
India's presence at the 2026 gala is shaping up to be significant. Apart from Karan Johar, Manish Malhotra and Isha Ambani are also expected to attend alongside Natasha Poonawalla.
Met Gala 2026 Hosts
The gala will be co-chaired by Beyoncé and Nicole Kidman alongside legendary editor Anna Wintour. Tennis superstar Venus Williams and global sensation Lisa will also join the host committee.
