The Met Gala is always a standout event on the fashion calendar, drawing in stars from every corner of the industry to showcase their unique styles while embracing the theme, “The Black Dandy.” This year, all eyes were on Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh, who made history as the first Punjabi artist and the first Indian man to proudly wear a turban at this iconic event.
Diljit’s outfit was inspired by the legendary Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala, known for his lavish lifestyle and incredible taste in jewelry. Stylist Abhilasha Devnani aimed to pay tribute to this royal figure by dressing Diljit in a replica of one of the Maharaja’s rare diamond necklaces. Initially, they hoped to borrow the original Patiala necklace, a stunning piece created by Cartier in 1928, valued at a jaw-dropping $2.5 billion and adorned with 2,930 diamonds weighing over 1,000 carats.
Although they couldn’t get their hands on the authentic necklace, which is now housed in a museum, Diljit’s team pressed on, crafting a custom piece inspired by the legendary original to ensure his look was both regal and refined. Diljit donned an ivory angrakha designed by Prabal Gurung, paired with a stylish matching cape, turban, and eye-catching jewelry.
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You could really see the meticulous attention to detail, especially with a beautifully crafted map of Punjab and the Punjabi script, Gurmukhi, elegantly inscribed on the back of his cape. This whole outfit wasn’t just about making a fashion statement; it was a vibrant showcase of Diljit’s pride in his heritage, putting Punjabi culture front and center on a remarkable global stage. His presence at the Met Gala was truly a celebration of his roots.
The Patiala necklace itself is rich with history, symbolizing the Maharaja’s wealth and status. Commissioned by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh and crafted by the renowned jewelry house Cartier, this legendary piece features a stunning array of diamonds, including the De Beers diamond, which was once hailed as the seventh-largest diamond in the world.
The tale behind the necklace is just as fascinating as its design. It mysteriously disappeared from the royal treasury in the 1940s, sparking a flurry of speculation about what happened to it. Even in its absence, the Patiala necklace remains an iconic symbol of luxury and grandeur.
Diljit’s appearance went beyond just wearing jewelry; it told a story of cultural pride. Every detail, from the intricate patterns on his angrakha to the script on his cape, echoed his deep connection to his Punjabi roots. His look at the Met Gala was a brilliant homage to Indian culture, reflecting the richness of his heritage.
The Met Gala is a lively platform where celebrities express their individuality through fashion and art. Diljit’s presence at the event served as a powerful reminder that fashion is more than just clothing; it embodies culture, heritage, and personal identity. His ensemble beautifully fused traditional and modern elements, showcasing the richness of Punjabi culture in a contemporary light.
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Diljit’s influence goes way beyond just the fashion scene. As the first Punjabi artist and the first turban-wearing Indian man to walk the Met Gala red carpet, he’s not just breaking stereotypes; he’s paving the way for future generations. His presence there is a celebration of representation and a vital step in showcasing diverse cultures on such prestigious platforms.
The response to Diljit’s appearance was nothing short of amazing, with many praising his bold choices and keen eye for detail. His confidence and elegance on the red carpet were truly inspiring, and his look will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the highlights of Met Gala 2025.
In essence, Diljit Dosanjh’s Met Gala ensemble was a stunning tribute to his Punjabi roots and the Maharaja of Patiala. His fearless fashion choices and attention to every detail made him shine on the red carpet, setting a powerful example for others to embrace their heritage. While the Patiala necklace symbolizes a piece of history, Diljit’s look will resonate for years, showcasing the deep connection between fashion and culture.
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The Met Gala is fundamentally a celebration of art, fashion, and self-discovery. Diljit’s appearance reminds us that fashion is about so much more than just clothing; it’s a reflection of culture, heritage, and identity. As the fashion world continues to evolve, it’s clear that diversity and representation are essential in shaping its future.
His look was a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity, highlighting the richness of Punjabi culture. Diljit’s pride in his heritage radiated through every detail of his outfit, inspiring others to honor and celebrate their own roots.