Mindy Kaling made a stunning statement at the Met Gala 2024 in a champagne gown by Gaurav Gupta. Embodying the ‘Garden of Time’ theme, the gown featured geometric and architectural molding that accentuated her curves, with a dramatic flower-like burst at the back. The flowing fabric extended into a striking train, capturing everyone's attention with its intricate details and artistry.
In an interview with Vogue on the red carpet, Kaling praised Gupta as a ‘genius.’ ‘It makes me really happy to rep such talented geniuses who happen to be from my community,’ Kaling talked about her gown and her jewellery, which was also created by an Indian designer.
While the Western audiences were impressed, some Indian fashion enthusiasts were disappointed by the eerie similarity between Mindy Kaling's Met Gala outfit and Aishwarya Rai's Cannes gown. Aishwarya's custom Gaurav Gupta creation from Cannes 2022, which took around 3500 man-hours to craft, featured a pink and blush palette. Every detail, from the cut to the veil at the back, closely resembled Kaling's Met Gala attire. Gupta's original Cannes design was inspired by the Venus sculpture, capturing Rai Bachchan's timeless beauty and effortless elegance.
‘I have been wondering where did I see this design before…oh its Aish, our aish from cannes,’ wrote an X user. Another chimed in, ‘Kaling looks beautiful but the look could be a bit different than what Aishwarya wore at Cannes’.
Whether accidental or inspired, the resemblance highlights the interconnected nature of fashion and the inevitable clash of trends. Despite these overlaps, each celebrity adds their unique touch, bringing diversity and endless perspectives to the fashion world.
The Met Gala's theme, ‘The Garden of Time,’ is inspired by J.G. Ballard's 1962 short story of the same name. This theme perfectly complements the latest exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute, titled ‘Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,’[ opening to the public on May 10.
Recently, it was revealed that Kaling will be returning to Hulu with a new ensemble comedy series titled ‘Murray Hill.’ Additionally, she is working on a Netflix series starring Kate Hudson, inspired by the life of Los Angeles Lakers president Jeanie Buss.
Also Watch | Met Gala 2024: Alia Bhatt stuns in a Sabyasachi saree with a massive train; took 1965 hours to create