Fashion’s biggest night is back, with global stars gearing up to deliver their most iconic looks yet. As always, the spotlight is also on which Indian celebrities will make it to the coveted guest list—and who might skip the red carpet this year.
The Met Gala 2026 will be held on May 4, 2026, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, with this year’s celebrations taking place inside the newly introduced Condé Nast Galleries near the iconic Great Hall.
Indian celebrities expected at Met Gala 2026
1. Karan Johar
Filmmaker Karan Johar is all set to make his much-awaited Met Gala debut this year. Known for his bold fashion choices, his appearance has already generated buzz. Adding to the excitement, designer Manish Malhotra will be styling him, promising a standout red carpet moment.
Malhotra confirmed the collaboration during an interview, revealing that Johar’s look will align with this year’s theme, Costume Art, and dress code, Fashion Is Art. Reports also suggest Johar could walk alongside Natasha Poonawalla.
2. Manish Malhotra
Apart from styling Johar, Manish Malhotra is also expected to attend the gala himself. The designer recently highlighted how Indian craftsmanship is finally receiving global recognition, with storytelling and artisanal work now taking center stage in fashion.
3. Deepika Padukone
A Met Gala regular, Deepika Padukone is expected to return to the red carpet. There is speculation she may attend with her husband Ranveer Singh, making them one of the most anticipated appearances—though her shooting schedule for King could impact plans.
4. Priyanka Chopra
Since her iconic debut, Priyanka Chopra Jonas has become a defining presence at the Met Gala. Known for her bold and experimental looks, she continues to be a global fashion force. However, reports suggest she may skip this year due to work commitments.
5. Alia Bhatt
After impressing at previous editions, Alia Bhatt is another name fans were hoping to see. While she has showcased Indian craftsmanship beautifully in the past, current reports indicate she may not attend the 2026 gala.
6. Natasha Poonawalla
Known for her daring and avant-garde fashion, Natasha Poonawalla is likely to return. Her red carpet looks have consistently stood out, making her one of the most anticipated Indian attendees.
7. Isha Ambani
Isha Ambani is also expected to grace the event once again. Since her debut, she has impressed with elegant, couture-driven looks that blend tradition with modern aesthetics.
8. Ananya Birla
Ananya Birla is reportedly set to make her Met Gala debut this year. With her growing global presence across business and music, her appearance is expected to bring a fresh, contemporary edge to the red carpet.
The bigger picture
With a mix of confirmed appearances, strong possibilities, and a few likely absences, India’s presence at the Met Gala 2026 continues to grow stronger each year—cementing its influence on the global fashion stage.