Filmmaker Karan Johar talked about his journey in fashion and cinema ahead of his appearance at the Met Gala 2026 in New York. In a conversation at the Empire State Building, Johar reflected on how his career has come full circle, returning to fashion on one of its most prominent global platforms.
Karan Johar says Met Gala moment feels like “coming full circle” in career; Daughter Roohi wants to take selfie with Sabrina Carpenter for Johar
Recalling his early years, Johar said, “I started out as a costume designer. That was my primary passion when I was about 22 years old. And then on a film set I discovered that filmmaking really excites me, excites me, inspires me.” He said that since he became a director and producer, his relationship with fashion has remained constant over the years.
Johar also shared memories of his first exposure to fashion through magazines. He said, “I remember the origin of fashion in my life was from Vogue. I remember reading my first fashion magazine Vogue when I was 12 years old. It was not available in India at that time, so I had to go to a small shop which sold some old Vogue magazines.”
Speaking about the importance of attending the Met Gala, Johar said that it was an event he had followed for years. “I always imagined what it would feel like to be on that carpet representing fashion and like a story with so much talent and so much artistry and hours of execution of each garment and idea. I just feel like fashion is a very deep art form,” he said. He said this year’s theme further strengthened the personal significance of his presence. “For me to come back this year where the theme is fashion is art really comes full circle in my mind, not only in my mind, but it’s also an important year to represent India,” she said.
The filmmaker stressed the importance of showcasing Indian culture on the global platform. “I am here to represent my country and showcase our deep cultural heritage through my attire,” he said.
On a lighter note, Johar talked about a personal wish for the evening. He said, “I’m a father of twins. Yash and Roohi, they’re both nine years old. My daughter is obsessed with Sabrina Carpenter. If I could meet her and if I could take a selfie with her, if it would be acceptable, allowed, and if I’m not violating her privacy, I think my daughter would do that, it would be the best gift to give her.”
Johar also confirmed that his outfit for the evening was designed by Manish Malhotra. Johar shared, “He’s a famous designer from India. He’s also my best friend. We’ve always been film collaborators. Every film I’ve directed, he’s actually designed the costumes. His name is Manish Malhotra. He’s made my costumes, which was meant to be because we’ve traveled together as best friends.”
He further said that his support for the Met Gala holds emotional significance. “He moved into the fashion world, I moved into film, and we crossed paths beautifully, and we’re here together representing our country, and I feel really great and passionate about that.”
