When Sudha Reddy, a Hyderabad-based businesswoman, stepped onto the Met Gala red carpet this year, it wasn't just another glamorous appearance—it was a bold statement. Held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 4, 2026, in New York, the event saw diverse looks, but Reddy stood out by bringing something deeply personal and rooted in Indian culture. This marked her third time at the gala, and she made sure it was unforgettable.
Necklace That Stole The Spotlight
The biggest highlight of her look was her jewellery. Reddy wore a necklace from her personal collection worth over $15 million (around Rs 142 crore). At its centre was the “Queen of Merelani,” a rare 550-carat tanzanite stone with a rich blue-violet shade, sourced from Tanzania.
The necklace had a vintage Victorian feel, decorated with rose-cut diamonds arranged in floral patterns and layered with strands of pearls. She paired it with a 23-carat yellow diamond ring and a 30-carat polki diamond ring from Rajasthan, adding more sparkle. In a night where many rely on borrowed jewels, Reddy's choice to wear her own collection elevated the look.
Manish Malhotra Creation Rooted In Tradition
Her outfit, designed by Manish Malhotra and styled by Mariel Haenn, was just as impressive. Inspired by Hyderabad's rich heritage, the custom-made gown followed the theme “Fashion Is Art” through traditional Kalamkari work.
The royal blue velvet gown featured a structured corset and a long, seven-metre train. It took over 3,459 hours and the effort of more than 90 artisans to complete. The design included detailed motifs like the Tree of Life (Kalpavriksha), the Palapitta bird, and other elements connected to Telangana's culture. There were also sun and moon symbols, adding a deeper meaning tied to time and tradition. A metal design at the back, made with brass, copper, and silver, gave the outfit a sculptural finish.
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Global Presence
Sudha Reddy first attended the Met Gala in 2021 and returned in 2024 with another high-value diamond piece. From Cannes to Paris events, she has consistently used global platforms to showcase Indian craftsmanship.
Who Is Sudha Reddy?
Sudha Reddy is a Hyderabad-based billionaire, philanthropist, and director at Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Limited (MEIL). She is also the founder of the Sudha Reddy Foundation, which focuses on healthcare and social causes, including breast cancer awareness and child nutrition initiatives in partnership with global organisations.
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Beyond business and philanthropy, she has built a strong presence on international red carpets, known for her love of statement jewellery and her effort to highlight Indian art and design on a global stage.
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