During the CBS Saturday Morning show, Malhotra previously put all rumours to rest by sharing that he will be designing for the filmmaker: “This time I’m gonna be designing for a very big director who’s known for his fashion and movies, Karan Johar.”

Manish Malhotra’s second rodeo

Johar’s much-awaited red carpet moment was also followed by Malhotra himself, who walked the steps for the second time this year in an ensemble that paid homage to the city of Mumbai.

“I wanted to create something deeply personal- a reflection of Mumbai, the city that has shaped my journey, my cinema, and my sense of design, along with the atelier that brings my vision to life every day- my work family,” the designer shared on Instagram.

Manish Malhotra at the Met Gala (Source: Instagram/@manishmalhotra05)

Malhotra chose a classic Indian bandhgala, layered with an architectural cape, and brought to life over 960 hours by more than 50 artisans across Mumbai and Delhi. “For me, this is more than a garment- it is a story of craft, memory, and collaboration,” he added.

The bandhgala brought together dori, zardozi, chikankari, and kasab embroidery as a narrative. Woven into the piece are the names and signatures of the artisans themselves- a tribute to every hand and every moment that shaped it. Intricate hand-embroidery serves as references to Mumbai’s cinematic landmarks, while three-dimensional sculptural elements celebrate the artisans of his atelier who crafted the piece.

Styled with a signature Manish Malhotra brooch & collar pins from the designer’s High Jewellery vault, this look is both a celebration and a reminder — of where we come from, and how Indian craftsmanship continues to find its place on a global stage.