There’s a stir among fashion circles and fans globally as the expectations for star-studded appearances mount for the forthcoming MET Gala 2024. The event, known for its extravagant themes and illustrious guest list, may see a conspicuous absence this year. Bollywood’s reigning queen and global icon, Deepika Padukone, who has been a regular fixture at the gala for the past three years, is likely to skip the event, according to inside sources.
For three years in a row, Deepika Padukone has turned heads on the MET Gala red carpet with her sophisticated fashion choices, cementing her status as India’s premiere A-lister on the global stage. Her debut at the Gala in 2017 had her exuding elegance in a sleek slip gown designed by Tommy Hilfiger. The following years encapsulated her versatility with Prabal Gurung’s striking red gown in 2018, and a daring pink lurex Jacquard gown by Zac Posen in 2019, replete with an exceptional 400 three-dimensional embroidered pieces.
The anticipation for her 2024 MET Gala appearance was understandably high. However, it appears that Padukone’s burgeoning schedule has led her to prioritize her professional commitments over the fashion extravaganza. With the shoot for ‘Singham 3’ underway, and the launch of her forthcoming film ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ also on the calendar for May, conflicts with the MET Gala timing seem to have prompted her decision to forgo the event. The actress, who is also expecting her first child with husband and fellow actor Ranveer Singh, remains undeterred by her pregnancy, keeping busy with an impressive lineup of projects.
A source close to Padukone stated, “Deepika has been a regular on the MET Gala Red Carpet. Fans naturally look forward to her appearance each year, as she is India’s biggest global brand ambassador. However, filming for ‘Singham 3’ and the upcoming release of ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ are her current focuses, both of which are slated around the time of the MET Gala. Accordingly, she will not be partaking in this year’s festivities.”
In recent developments, Deepika Padukone has been in the spotlight after announcing her pregnancy. The couple is expected to welcome their new family member in September. This news followed shortly after Padukone presented an award at the BAFTAs, sparking conversations about whether her attire was chosen to discreetly cover her pregnancy.
On the career front, Deepika has been riding the wave of success with Siddharth Anand’s ‘Fighter’, an aerial action thriller that premiered to enthusiastic audiences on January 25. The film, which also features Hrithik Roshan, Anil Kapoor, Karan Singh Grover, and Akshay Oberoi, has burgeoned her acclaim in the cinematic arena. Further adding to her repertoire is ‘Kalki 2898 AD’, a sci-fi action thriller opposite Prabhas. Ranveer Singh, her spouse, is also gearing up for an appearance in Farhan Akhtar’s ‘Don 3’ and will join Deepika in ‘Singham Again’.
Despite her MET Gala absence, Padukone’s star continues to rise; her work ethic and commitment to her craft are palpable. Her decision to step away from this year’s MET Gala demonstrates her prioritization of her burgeoning acting career and impending motherhood. Fans and fashion aficionados may miss her presence on the iconic MET steps this year, but Deepika Padukone’s influence as a global ambassador for Indian cinema remains unshaken.
