Met Gala 2025: Diljit Dosanjh's debut is a regal ode to Indian heritage

What can be said of Diljit Dosanjh that hasn't been said before? The man wears his turban with pride and carries India on his shoulders like a badge of honour. Perhaps that's the reason his Met Gala debut in 2025 will go down in history as among the most iconic looks of all time. He wore his culture, heritage and legacy on his sleeve in an ensemble that truly envisages the dandy of our times—the Indian dandies. In the Indian context, the royal families personified what it meant to blend regal Indian heritage with the booming influx of European influences. Among the Indian dandies, the Maharajas of Patiala were most famous and the inspiration behind Diljit Dosanjh's, may we say, legendary Met Gala ensemble.

Nepalese American designer Prabal Gurung pulled all the stops for Diljit Dosanjh's Met Gala debut. And it showed. The designer dug up Indian archives to find references to embroidery like zardozi, lace and appliqué to align the theme—all while keeping it rooted to India.

He recreated a long, ivory sherwani and churidaar set with a cape inspired by the royal wardrobes of the maharajas of the region, known for their opulent and flamboyant displays of wealth. The embroidery on the long sherwani is identical to that worn by Indian royalty, complete with embroidered sleeves and harness. Diljit wore the unique custom-made ensemble that carried multiple Indian connections like the sun and moon on the cape, but many other symbols celebrating his roots from Punjab. The back of the cape was embroidered with the outline of Punjab and the Gurumukhi script in order, inside it. The saree, up until now, was the most popular symbol of Indian culture. Thanks to Diljit Dosanjh, who is known for his Indian representation on the world stage, the spotlight shines brighter on the subcontinent's many cultural jewels, more than what meets the eye. 

No mention of the Maharajas of Patiala would be complete without their love of ostentatious jewellery. In addition to his regal white and gold ensemble, the global singing sensation paid homage to the royal Indian dandies with a recreation of the iconic Patiala necklace from Golecha's jewels. The five-layered necklace is intricately adorned with diamonds, emeralds and rubies and is layered with a diamond and emerald necklace and an emerald choker. In case it couldn't get any more iconic, the singer is seen in jewels from Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala’s legendary Cartier collection as well. In addition to all the beautiful jewellery, the turban too is beautifully embellished with a kalgi set in diamonds and emeralds to match the rest of the ensemble.

The sword is an important symbol of righteousness and valour in the Indian context, especially within the Sikh community. Diljit Dosanjh's meticulous eye for detail would not have spared the incredible opportunity to carry one as a hallmark of Indian prestige on such a huge global platform like the Met Gala. He didn't disappoint. He never does. 

He will leave you speechless and in awe, and we bet you won't forget this sight of Diljit Dosanjh celebrate what it truly means to be Indian and proud anytime soon.