Maharajah Beats Magician: How Diljit Dosanjh Outshone Shah Rukh Khan at the 2025 Met Gala
- As both superstars continue enhancing Indiaâs visibility and cultural influence globally, there are reasons why Diljitâs Met Gala debut undeniably set a powerful precedent.
The 2025 Met Gala, one of fashionâs most anticipated global events, brought together a stunning array of international celebrities, each interpreting this yearâs unique theme, âSuperfine: Tailored for You,â inspired by the Metropolitan Museum of Artâs exhibition celebrating Black fashion history.
The night celebrated personalized style, individualism, and cultural heritage, setting the stage for a memorable showcase. Among the dazzling attendees, two Indian stars, Diljit Dosanjh and Shah Rukh Khan, captivated attention, each bringing their unique charisma to the famed red carpet. Yet it was Diljit Dosanjh who seized the spotlight, interpreting the theme with boldness and authenticity and marking the triumph of the Maharajah over the Magician.
Diljit Dosanjh is a multifaceted entertainer known worldwide for his extraordinary versatility in music, acting, and fashion. Born in Dosanjh Kalan, Punjab, on January 6, 1984, he initially gained popularity through his groundbreaking musical style, a dynamic fusion of traditional Punjabi folk rhythms and contemporary pop music. His breakthrough album, “Smile,” catapulted him to stardom, resonating across India and among global Punjabi diaspora communities.
After establishing himself in music, Diljit transitioned effortlessly into cinema, quickly becoming a major figure in Punjabi film. His performances in blockbusters like âJatt & Julietâ highlighted his natural comedic flair and magnetic screen presence, earning widespread acclaim. Diljit then entered Bollywood in 2016 with âUdta Punjab,â earning critical recognition and winning the prestigious Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut. His portrayal of a police officer battling Punjabâs rampant drug epidemic was widely praised for its emotional depth and authenticity.
Beyond music and cinema, Diljit has consistently made waves in fashion circles, renowned for his fearless embrace of cultural expression. His fashion choices prominently feature vibrantly colored turbans, intricate embroidery, and culturally significant symbols, strongly representing his Sikh and Punjabi roots.
At his much-anticipated Met Gala debut, Diljit collaborated with designer Prabal Gurung to craft a magnificent tribute to Punjabi royalty. His ensemble featured an elegant white Sikh royal outfit, highlighted by a jewel-encrusted turban, a luxurious cape beautifully embroidered with the map of Punjab and text in the Gurmukhi script, and a majestic lion-headed kirpan, a traditional Sikh ceremonial dagger symbolizing courage. This stunning display resonated powerfully with the Galaâs âTailored for Youâ theme, earning universal admiration for Diljitâs cultural statement and sartorial bravery.
In contrast, Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khanâs debut, though historically significant, presented a different approach. Khan, known globally for his magnetic screen presence and legendary charm, opted for an understated yet elegant look. Designed by acclaimed Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Shah Rukhâs sophisticated black attire featured intricate detailing, subtle accessories, and an ornate cane, embodying a refined sense of classic elegance. While Khanâs ensemble was undeniably stylish and polished, it lacked the thematic audacity and vibrant cultural resonance that Diljit so effortlessly conveyed.
The differences in their interpretations underscored distinct stylistic philosophies. Shah Rukh Khan embraced subtlety, aligning more with a magicianâs polished, understated charm. Diljit Dosanjh, on the other hand, fully embraced his heritage and boldly embodied the regal flamboyance of a Maharajah, confidently standing out amidst an elite crowd. Diljitâs appearance at the Met Gala transcended fashion. It symbolized a powerful declaration of cultural authenticity and the proud assertion of identity on a global stage. His journey, from humble origins in a small Punjabi village to international recognition, underscores his commitment to cultural expression, authenticity, and artistic excellence.
As both Diljit Dosanjh and Shah Rukh Khan continue enhancing Indiaâs visibility and cultural influence globally, Diljitâs Met Gala debut undeniably set a powerful precedent. His impactful fashion statement celebrated his personal heritage and highlighted the importance of embracing oneâs cultural roots with pride and confidence, demonstrating how authenticity and individuality can leave a mark on the world.
Nadia B. Ahmad is an Associate Professor of Law at Barry University School of Law and a Ph.D. Student at the Yale School of the Environment. She is also a Fellow at the Center for Security, Race, and Rights at Rutgers University and affiliated faculty at Harvard Law Schoolâs Institute for Global Law & Policy.