Bollywood filmmaker Karan Johar made a strong debut at the Met Gala 2026. He turned the famous red carpet into a display of art and Indian heritage. His custom outfit quickly grabbed attention online. Within minutes, social media was full of reactions. Many users even compared his look to Shah Rukh Khan.
Karan Johar’s look was not only fashion, but also a bold statement. Designed by Manish Malhotra, the outfit stood out for its size, detail and cultural touch. Many praised how confidently he followed the Met Gala theme.
A ‘Living Painting’ Inspired By Raja Ravi Varma
For his MET Gala 2026 debut, Karan Johar wore a custom Manish Malhotra outfit called “Framed in Eternity.” It was inspired by the famous 19th-century painter Raja Ravi Varma. The look mixed fashion with fine art. It included a structured vintage jacket with strong shoulders and a dramatic, nearly six-foot hand-painted cape.
Johar chose Varma’s work for its emotional depth. He said the artist “painted feelings,” just like he tries to do in his films. The outfit showed detailed Indian craftsmanship. It took 5,600 hours of work by over 80 artisans in 85 days. The team did not use any digital tools. They used traditional methods like zardozi, dori work and 3D sculpting.
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The cape was the main highlight. It had 3D designs of lotuses, swans, and pillars. Artists used acrylic and oil paints to give it the shine of a real painting. To complete the look, Johar wore a multi-gemstone necklace and rings from his brand Tyaani. He also added tinted glasses from R Kumar Opticians, giving it a modern touch.
Netizens Compare Karan Johar To Shah Rukh Khan
As soon as Karan Johar’s MET Gala 2026 photos appeared online, reactions started pouring in. Many people praised his bold style and attention to detail. Some even compared him to Shah Rukh Khan, starting a debate online.
Karan Johar for the met!
by u/jawanijanemann in BollyBlindsNGossip
One Reddit user wrote, “Nailed the theme. Gazillion times better than how SRK was presented. 9/10”
Another commented, “Better than Shah Rukh by a mile.”
A third user said, “#Raja Johar lookin’ royal.”
One more quipped, “Karan being one of the VERY few people at the Met who aced the theme. Weirdly proud.”
A netizen wrote, “This man was born for the MET Gala.”
This debut was also a big moment for KJo. Karan Johar became the first Indian filmmaker to walk the Met Gala carpet. It showed how Indian talent and craftsmanship are gaining global attention.
What’s Next for Karan Johar?
On the work front, Karan Johar is preparing for his next film, Chand Mera Dil. It stars Ananya Panday and Lakshya and is directed by Vivek Soni. The film will release in theatres on May 22.
