Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh made a majestic debut at the Met Gala 2025, turning heads in a regal ensemble that celebrated the legacy of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala—one of India’s most flamboyant and powerful royal figures.

Dressed in a stunning white sherwani, complete with a turban, Gurmukhi embroidery, and a floor-length cape, Diljit proudly brought the grandeur of Punjab to the global fashion stage. His look, designed by Abhivasha Devnani, featured ornate jewelry, a matching headpiece, and even a ceremonial sword—mirroring the iconic appearance of the former Maharaja.

Who Was Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala?

Born in 1891, Bhupinder Singh ascended the throne of Patiala at just nine years old after the death of his father. A member of the Phulkian and Sidhu dynasties, he ruled the princely state from 1900 to 1938 during British colonial rule. He studied at Aitchison College in Lahore and later played important military roles in World War I, serving in France, Belgium, Italy, and Palestine. By 1918, he had earned the rank of Lieutenant-General.

A Lavish Life Few Could Imagine

Beyond his political and military achievements, the Maharaja was known for his extravagant personal life. As detailed in Freedom at Midnight by Dominique Lapierre and Larry Collins, Bhupinder Singh reportedly had:

• 10 wives
• 88 children
• A harem of 350 women

The tales don’t stop there—he even employed plastic surgeons from France, England, and India in a private lab to alter the appearance of his harem members according to his preferences.

A Man of Firsts

• First Indian to own a private aircraft (bought in 1910)
• Known for his immense collections of luxury watches, clothes, dogs, paintings, and vintage cars
• Connoisseur of sports, especially cricket, with an instrumental role in promoting the game in India

Diljit Dosanjh’s tribute not only brought royalty to the Met Gala red carpet but also revived interest in the jaw-dropping life of a ruler who lived like few others in history.