Diljit Dosanjh Met Gala Appearance Blends Royal Fashion with a Historic Cultural Statement
The Diljit Dosanjh Met Gala debut was more than a stylish appearance—it was a moment of global cultural representation. At the 2025 Met Gala, Diljit walked the blue carpet wearing a powerful, symbolism-rich outfit that honored his Punjabi and Sikh heritage. But the evening held a surprising twist, too: Shakira unknowingly helped him bring his kirpan—a sacred ceremonial dagger—into the event.
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How Shakira’s Presence at the Metal Detector Helped Diljit Carry His Kirpan Inside
In a now-viral interview with BBC Asian Network, Diljit Dosanjh revealed how Shakira became a part of his Met Gala story. The singer recounted that due to event security, he was told he couldn’t carry his kirpan inside the venue. He agreed to only take backstage photos with it. However, amid the last-minute rush, he left with the kirpan still in his hand.
As luck would have it, Shakira was ahead of him in the security line. She was wearing a metallic gown adorned with pins and accessories, which set off the metal detector. With attention focused on her, Diljit—kirpan hidden under his cape—slipped in unnoticed. “If they catch us, they catch us both,” he joked. Security was busy scanning Shakira and didn’t check him. Inadvertently, Shakira became his shield.
A Powerful Look Designed by Prabal Gurung Represented Punjab with Precision
Diljit Dosanjh Met Gala ensemble was designed by Nepalese-American designer Prabal Gurung. The outfit featured an ivory sherwani paired with a floor-length cape. The cape was embroidered with a detailed map of Punjab and sacred Gurmukhi script. The sherwani embodied royal South Asian tailoring, blending elegance with cultural depth.
He accessorized the look with a custom turban, a diamond necklace inspired by the historic Patiala necklace, and a lion-headed kirpan. These elements turned his appearance into a cultural statement—one that merged faith, fashion, and history.

The Emotional Roots Behind Diljit’s Outfit: “It Wasn’t About Me, It Was About Punjab”
Diljit shared that he cried when he first visualized his Met Gala outfit. During a break in shooting Sardaarji 3, he imagined himself draped in cultural pride, walking the carpet not for fame—but for Punjab. “It wasn’t important that I go there—it was important that Punjab goes there,” he said. That emotional connection was clear in every thread of his ensemble.
Shakira’s Role Highlights the Power of Unexpected Cultural Moments at Global Events
Shakira may not have known what was happening behind her, but her moment at the metal detector played a key role in a cultural first. The incident highlights how moments of cultural importance can unfold in unexpected ways—even at high-profile events like the Met Gala. The Diljit Dosanjh Met Gala moment became a trending topic, with fans calling it a story worth retelling.
Fans and Fashion Media Crown Diljit the Star of the Night
The Diljit Dosanjh Met Gala look topped Vogue’s “Best Dressed” reader poll, surpassing global stars including Zendaya, Rihanna, and yes—Shakira. His outfit didn’t just impress critics; it resonated with fans worldwide. Social media dubbed him “The Maharaja of the Met,” and Indian celebrities like Shehnaaz Gill praised his bold representation of Punjab on the world stage.
The Making of the Outfit: 50 Artisans, Four Days, and Deep Cultural Research
Diljit’s look was more than fashion—it was a tribute crafted by skill and tradition. Prabal Gurung’s team employed over 50 artisans, who took four days to complete the cape’s embroidery. The Gurmukhi letters and map of Punjab were stitched with precision and care. Diljit’s necklace, watch, and bracelets added an extra layer of luxury while still connecting to Punjabi royal heritage.

Representation Done Right: What Diljit Dosanjh and Shakira Symbolized at the Met Gala
While several South Asian celebrities attended the 2025 Met Gala—including Priyanka Chopra and Shah Rukh Khan—Diljit’s look stood apart. He didn’t just participate; he represented. Shakira’s involvement, though unintentional, showed how global stars often intersect with powerful cultural narratives in ways that are surprising and meaningful.
Shakira and Diljit Created an Unforgettable, Unplanned Cultural Collaboration at the Met Gala
Diljit Dosanjh Met Gala debut made headlines not just for fashion, but for heart and heritage. Shakira, unintentionally, played a pivotal role in that journey. The combination of intention, representation, and spontaneity made this Met Gala moment truly iconic. Diljit didn’t just walk the carpet—he brought Punjab with him. And Shakira, unknowingly, walked beside him.