The Bollywood icon, affectionately known as SRK, appeared in a long black wool coat by renowned Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee. His minimalist look was elevated by eye-catching accessories, including a dazzling chain with a large "K" pendant and a jeweled cane featuring a tiger's head.
Speaking to Vogue hosts Ego Nwodim and Teyana Taylor during the livestream, Khan revealed that he's "very shy" and usually avoids red-carpet appearances. To feel comfortable, he asked Mukherjee to design something that reflected his personal taste. "I told Sabya I only wear black and white, but what we designed for me is what I'm most comfortable in," he shared. "That's how I think it should be."
With over 100 films to his name, Khan's appearance at the Met Gala has been long awaited. Designer Mukherjee explained that it was the perfect year for SRK to attend, as the event honored Black designers and celebrated Black dandyism — a fashion tradition rooted in elegance and cultural expression.
"When you get a man like this on the red carpet, especially when it's 'Black dandy,' representation is the most important thing," Mukherjee explained. "We wanted to represent Shah Rukh Khan as Shah Rukh Khan, and nobody else."
Mukherjee himself is a global figure in fashion. His label, Sabyasachi, is a favorite among Bollywood celebrities, known for stunning gowns and traditional saris. He recently marked the brand's 25th anniversary with a grand runway show showcasing over 150 looks inspired by his roots in West Bengal. His ambition is clear: to make Sabyasachi "India's first global luxury brand."
Another first-time Met Gala guest was Indian actor and singer Diljit Dosanjh. A beloved figure in Punjabi entertainment, Dosanjh wore a cape embroidered with a map of Punjab. His royal-inspired outfit was designed by Nepali-American fashion designer Prabal Gurung, according to the New York Times.
Together, Shah Rukh Khan and Diljit Dosanjh made a powerful statement about South Asian representation on one of the world's biggest fashion stages.
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