May 07, 2025: Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor has spoken out strongly against the online criticism surrounding Indian celebrities’ participation in the Met Gala 2025. Responding to a post by fashion commentary account Diet Sabya on Instagram, Janhvi praised the growing global recognition of Indian artisans and designers.
“It was high time. Our artisans and designers are the best in the world. They deserve the spotlight on a global stage like the Met. As do our icons,” she wrote, underlining the importance of Indian representation at globally celebrated fashion events.
Janhvi further addressed the backlash from certain sections of social media users who questioned the growing Indian visibility at the Met Gala. “Shouldn’t we be happy we’re finally getting our due instead of salty about how seeing our own people on this platform is making it seem a little less aspirational?” she asked. “Might I say our garments were amongst the most spectacular. Amusing how we’re being almost classist towards ourselves, clearly colonial trauma hasn’t left us?”
She also emphasized the historic exploitation of Indian craft by global fashion houses. “For decades, the work of our artisans has been exported from our country and put on global platforms without credit. They have borrowed our fabrics, our embroidery, our textiles, our jewellery and presented it as theirs.”
Expressing pride, she concluded, “I’m glad our people are finally getting the chance to represent so much of our work and heritage. The sense of pride I felt seeing our artists and garments at the Met made the whole affair seem even more magical.”
The 2025 Met Gala saw a strong Indian presence. Shah Rukh Khan made history as the first Indian male actor to attend. Kiara Advani made headlines by debuting her baby bump on the red carpet, while Diljit Dosanjh received acclaim for honoring his Sikh roots. Priyanka Chopra also delivered a show-stopping appearance at the event.