The 98th Academy Awards unfolded more than just Hollywood’s biggest night on the 15th March 2026. It became a celebration of global voices, where a few South Asian talent carved out a presence that was both subtle and striking. Instead of a single defining moment, representation appeared in many ways throughout the event. From presenters and nominees to the red carpet appearance, and after-party looks. Together, all of these moments reflected a major shift in visibility, where South Asian figures are no longer occasional guests, but part of the fabric of the industry.
Beyond cinema, fashion has always played a role in the Academy Awards. And our South Asian stars equally played a powerful role in shaping that presence. Through couture gowns, traditional silhouettes, each appearance carried an identity of the south asian culture.
Here are all the South Asian Stars that Attended the Oscars 2026:
1) Priyanka Chopra Jonas
Priyanka Chopra Jonas attended the academy awards as a presented for the Best International Feature Film. The Indian actress wore a custom white strapless Dior Gown that leaned into a clean, classic elegant look. Her entire look stood out for it’s minimal structure and bridal-inspired silhouette, making it one of the most talked about fashion moment of the event.
2) Isha Ambani
Isha Ambani brought a strong cultural look to the Oscars. She first made an appearance in a vintage Valentino couture strapless gown paired with Lorraine Schwartz diamond, before changing into a custom Dilara Findikoglu ensemble crafted using Banarasi brocade, subtly spotlighting Indian textiles on a international fashion stage.
3) Geeta Gandbhir
Geeta Gandbhir attended the event as a nominee, making history with 2 documentary nominations, including Best Documentary Feature for The Perfect Neighbor, and The Best Documentary Short for The Devil is Busy. Her presented marked a historic moment for South Asian filmmakers at the Oscars.
4) Charithra Chandran
Bridgerton actress Charithra Chandran, walked on the red carpet in a emerald green strapless grown from Miss Sohee’s SS24 collection. The structured silhouette and color added a fresh, contemporary edge to the night’s fashion lineup.
5) Bela Bajaria
Bela Bajaria stood out by embracing Indian tradition, she wore a black floral saree to the event. Her look brought a distinctly South Asian silhouette to a space dominated by Western gowns, highlighting how cultural dress continues to hold power on international stage.
6) Kumail Nanjiani & Emily V. Gordon
Kumail Nanjiani attended the event along with Emily V. Gordon, with him wearing a classic tailored tuxedo. Their appearance reflected South Asian representation within the Hollywood industry.
7) Alexandre Singh
Alexandre Singh attended as the winner for Best Live Action Short Film, Two People Exchanging Saliva, marking a major achievement. Dressed in a formal evening wear, their win highlighted South Asian success beyond the red carpet.
8) Simone Ashley
Bridgerton Simone Ashley brought the after-party glamour in a silver Tamara Ralph couture grown at the Vanity Fair Oscars party. The sleek, shimmering look reflected a modern, fashion-forward take on red carpet dressing.
9) Mindy Kaling
Mindy Kaling attended the after-party in a custom Elie Saab gown with crystal embellishments. Giving a classic Hollywood glamour.
Indian Actor Dharmendra Honoured in the Academy Awards
Bollywood actor Dharmendra was honoured in the In Memoriam segment, representing a legacy moment rather than a red carpet appearance. A powerful reminder of South Asians contribution to cinema.
Taken together, all of the appearances showcased how South Asian influence at the Academy Awards is evolving, moving beyond just a milestone, and into a multifaceted presence. Whether its through a saree, a heritage textile or a filmmakers name among the many nominees and winners. They reshaped the space in their own way, bringing each culture, craftsmanship and individually with them.
Source: Vogue India
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