There is also speculation around Ranveer Singh.
As anticipation builds for the Met Gala 2026, questions around South Asian representation are shaping early coverage of fashion’s biggest night.
Taking place at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York on May 4, the event remains famously secretive about its guest list.
This year’s reported theme, “Costume Art”, alongside the dress code “Fashion Is Art”, has already sparked speculation about bold, culturally rich red carpet moments.
However, amid widespread rumours, Karan Johar appears to be the only South Asian celebrity firmly reported as attending.
Multiple outlets describe the filmmaker’s presence as a confirmed debut, marking a significant moment for Indian representation on the global fashion stage.
In contrast, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, a Met Gala regular, is widely reported to be skipping the 2026 event due to prior commitments.
Her absence would be notable, given her consistent appearances and status as one of the most recognised South Asian figures at the gala.
Meanwhile, several other high-profile names continue to circulate in pre-event speculation, though without the same level of confirmation.
Deepika Padukone is frequently mentioned as a potential attendee, with fans hoping for a return to the Met steps.
Similarly, Alia Bhatt is appearing on multiple “expected” lists, though reports stop short of confirming her presence.
Fashion designer Manish Malhotra is also said to be attending following his 2025 appearance, though this remains based on media reports rather than official confirmation.
Regular attendee Natasha Poonawalla is another name repeatedly cited, reinforcing her growing association with the event.
There is also speculation around Ranveer Singh, often linked to a possible joint appearance with Deepika Padukone, though this has not been independently verified.
As of publication, the distinction between confirmed, reported and rumoured guests remains crucial, particularly given the Met Gala’s tightly guarded guest list.
This layered uncertainty reflects a broader shift in how South Asian representation is being discussed, moving beyond individual appearances to sustained visibility.
The conversation is further amplified by the impact of the Met Gala 2025, which saw standout moments from Indian stars, including Shah Rukh Khan and Diljit Dosanjh.
Their presence last year elevated expectations for 2026, placing greater scrutiny on which South Asian figures will ultimately walk the red carpet.
While speculation continues to dominate headlines, the confirmed attendance of Karan Johar signals a meaningful, if measured, continuation of South Asian influence at the Met Gala.
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