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When the smell of pizza fills the halls of the Pentagon, some believe the world might be on the brink of crisis. 

Dubbed the Pentagon Pizza Index, this quirky-yet-creepy theory suggests that sudden spikes in food delivery orders - not just pizza - to top U.S. intelligence agencies may signal major global developments before they're publicly announced.

What is the Pentagon Pizza Index?

Also known as the Pizza Meter, this phenomenon tracks unusual takeout activity near U.S. government hubs like the Pentagon, CIA, and White House, often observed just hours before global emergencies unfold. 

The pattern is simple: When high-level officials stay late at work - possibly preparing for war, a coup, or an international incident - they tend to order in. And when they do, it shows up in the data.

This data isn't classified. It's visible through Google Maps' "busy" hours, Uber Eats footfall trends, and even on-the-ground reports from nearby bars or eateries that suddenly become quiet, according to media reports.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/why-your-sms-now-looks-like-a-code-trais-new-message-format-explained-70270.htm">Why your SMS now looks like a code: TRAI's new message format, explained</a>

A Slice of History: Cold War origins

The theory isn't just online speculation. It originated in the late Cold War era, when Frank Meeks, a Domino's franchisee in Northern Virginia, noticed a curious trend.

On the eve of key national security events, pizza orders to government buildings doubled.

- October 1983: Orders surged the night before the U.S. invaded Grenada.

- December 1989: It happened again before the invasion of Panama.

- August 1, 1990: The CIA ordered 21 pizzas right before Iraq's invasion of Kuwait - a record at that time.

- December 1998: Pizza demand jumped during Bill Clinton's impeachment hearings and U.S. military operations in Kosovo.

Modern tracking: OSINT meets Mozzarellla

In 2024 and 2025, the Pizza Index took on new life, thanks to open-source intelligence (OSINT). With apps like Google Maps and X, people are now watching Domino's delivery zones the way others monitor satellite imagery.

One X account, @PenPizzaReport, has become a go-to source for tracking "abnormal" pizza activity. On June 1, 2025, it flagged a spike in orders near the Pentagon. Hours later, news broke of an Israeli strike on Iranian targets - a potential precursor to wider escalation.

The same trend was spotted on April 13, 2024, when Iran launched drones at Israel in retaliation for an attack on its consulate. Before the news broke, pizza deliveries near D.C. surged again.

Why Pizza?

It's not just coincidence. During high-stress situations, staff are often stuck in 16-20 hour shifts. Pizza is inexpensive, filling, and delivers well, making it the go-to choice for crisis-fuelled overtime meals.

As per reports, Behavioural Psychology backs this up: Under stress, people tend to crave calorie-dense comfort food. When dozens of staffers order from the same restaurant, it causes noticeable traffic that even casual observers - or algorithms - can detect.

Is it Reliable?

Not exactly. The Pizza Index isn't infallible. It might pick up on late work nights, nearby football games, or food app glitches. That's why modern OSNIT sleuths cross-check pizza patterns with:

- Military aircraft activity

- Ride-hailing trends

- Local electricity usage

- Police scanner activity

What the Government Says

Officially? Nothing. U.S. authorities have never commented on the Pizza Index or its implications, reports suggest. But for digital watchdogs and online conspiracy theorists alike, it remains an oddly consistent - and darkly humorous - proxy for preparedness.

So, next time you see the Pentagon's neighbourhood pizzerias lighting up late at night - you might want to refresh your news feed. Something big might be cooking.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/explained-what-is-agentic-ai-and-why-its-a-big-leap-from-generative-ai-69159.htm">Explained: What is 'Agentic AI' and why it's a big leap from generative AI</a>

Reading between the slices: What is the "Pentagon Pizza Index"?

Ever squinted at an SMS and thought, "Who sent this?" Whether it was a tempting flash sale alert or an OTP you couldn't trace, those days of guessing are now over.

Since May 6, 2025, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has rolled out a new SMS header format under its TCCCPR 2025 Amendment, bringing transparency to every commercial message you receive. In simple terms: your SMS now carries a secret identity tag that reveals where it's from and what it's about.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/trai-releases-draft-manual-for-rating-properties-based-on-digital-connectivity-65867.htm">TRAI releases draft manual for rating properties based on digital connectivity</a>

The Formula

[Network][State]-[Brand]-[Type]

Each SMS now ends with one of these codes:

-P = Promotional (sales, offers, marketing campaigns)

-S = Service (app updates, appointment reminders)

-T = Transactional (bank OTPs, alerts)

-G = Government (official messages from govt departments)

Examples: 

- VM-BANK-T: Vodafone India, Maharashtra, Bank Header, Transactional.

- KA-ZOMATO-S: Karnataka network, Zomato, Service. Translation: Your food is almost here.

- VM-BLUDRT-S - Vodafone India, Maharashtra, Blue Dart, Service

What’s changed?

- Suffixes are now mandatory

All SMS headers (also known as sender IDs) must now carry the type-specific suffix, so you know whether it’s a transaction or a tempting deal. This suffix is auto-added based on your sender template registered on the DLT (Distributed Ledger Technology) platform.

- Service explicit category = Retired

The previously grey area called “Service Explicit” has been eliminated. All messages under this are now considered Promotional (-P) by default.

- Nothing for users to do

You don’t have to lift a finger. The suffix tagging and template updates are handled automatically by telecom providers and bulk SMS vendors.

- Brand headers stay the same

Businesses can still use their original sender names like NYKAA, ICICIBANK, or ZOMATO—with the type suffix simply added on.

Bonus: More protection from spam

Starting April 11, 2025, TRAI has also introduced:

- 7-day complaint window (extended from 3 days) for reporting spam or UCC (Unsolicited Commercial Communication).

- Tighter controls on rogue 10-digit numbers and unregistered telemarketers. Now, complaints can be filed even if the number isn’t part of an official registry.

What should you do?

Absolutely nothing. The changes are all backend-based. Whether you're a user or a business, the SMS ecosystem just got cleaner, clearer, and more accountable—without you lifting a finger.

Why it matters?

TRAI’s updated format is more than just a new naming convention—it’s a step towards a safer, smarter communication system. It demystifies your messages, curbs spam, and makes sure you know who’s talking to you—and why.

So the next time you see "GJ-MEESHO-P" or "TN-SBI-T", you'll know exactly what’s knocking on your inbox.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/trai-responds-to-dots-back-reference-reasserts-mandatory-digital-ratings-for-in-building-connectivity-66911.htm">TRAI responds to DoT's back-reference; reasserts mandatory Digital Ratings for in-building connectivity</a>

Why your SMS now looks like a code: TRAI's new message format, explained

Eli Lilly's weight-loss drug Mounjaro is seeing a strong early response in India, just three months after its launch in March 2025, according to media reports.

According to Winselow Tucker, Eli Lilly's top executive in India, the company is witnessing "encouraging" demand and is actively ramping up collaborations with healthcare providers to tackle the twin epidemics of obesity and diabetes, the report added.

India, home to over 101 million diabetics and an estimate 100 million obese individuals, presents a massive market for weight-loss therapies like Mounjaro. The drug enters a competitive space as Novo Nordisk prepares to launch its own blockbuster, Wegovy, soon.

What is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro is an injectable prescription medicine approved in India for:

- Improving blood sugar (glucose) in adults with type-2 diabetes.

- Assisting with weight loss in adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) above 30 (obese), or between 27-30 with at least one weight-related health condition.

- It is to be used along with a reduced-calorie deficit meal plan and increased physical activity under medical supervision.

The drug works by stimulating insulin production as needed, reducing glucose production by the liver, and slowing digestion, which prolongs satiety and helps with weight loss.

How much does it cost in India?

- 2.5 mg vial: Rs 3,500

- 5 mg vial: Rs 4,375

- Monthly therapy can cost between Rs 18,000 and Rs 22,000, depending on the dosage.

Performance so far

Since launch on March 21, 2025, Mounjaro has sold over 81,000 vials in India. According to Pharmatrac data:

- Sales reached approximately Rs 23.94 crore from March to May.

- Monthly sales have trebled since launch.

Eli Lilly does not publicly comment on prescription volumes or internal sales data, according to reports.

The road ahead

As Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy prepares for entry, competition will intensify in the premium weight-loss therapy space in India. However, Eli Lilly is betting on clinical outcomes and doctor engagement to drive adoption. Tucker said the company is focused on educating healthcare professionals and patients about the importance of addressing obesity and diabetes in tandem - a strategy that could help Mounjaro maintain its first-mover advantage, media reports added.

Disclaimer:
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. For more information on obesity, diabetes, and approved treatments such as Mounjaro, please consult qualified healthcare professionals and refer to official health portals.

Here's why Eli Lilly's Mounjaro is the talk of the town - What is it and how does it work

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is entering its next big phase - and it's called agentic AI. While generative AI tools like ChatGPT or DALL·E have dazzled the world with their ability to generate content, agentic AI is taking things a step further: it can plan, decide, and execute complex tasks with limited human input.

Imagine AI that doesn’t just suggest the best time for your Mount Everest trek but also books your flights and hotels. Or think of digital assistants that not only chat with patients but manage their medication reminders and dietary preferences. These capabilities represent the frontier of agentic AI - autonomous systems that can perform multistep, nuanced tasks at scale.

What is Agentic AI?

At its core, agentic AI refers to AI systems composed of “agents” that operate independently to achieve specific goals. These agents mimic human decision-making, work in real-time, and can perform tasks with little to no supervision. They don’t just generate content - they take action.

Unlike traditional AI models that operate within rigid parameters, agentic AI brings autonomy, proactivity, specialization, adaptability, and intuitive interaction into the mix. It draws on the power of large language models (LLMs) but expands their capabilities by orchestrating them to perform real-world actions via APIs, databases, and external tools.

These agents can operate solo or as part of a multiagent architecture where a “conductor” oversees a set of specialized sub-agents - or where agents work collaboratively in decentralized harmony.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/commercetainment-explained-the-future-is-a-blend-of-content-entertainment-and-shopping-68076.htm">Commercetainment Explained: The future is a blend of content, entertainment and shopping</a>

Key benefits

- Autonomous decision-making: Agentic AI can execute tasks without constant human direction. Whether it's scheduling a meeting or managing inventory in real time, these agents are designed for sustained, long-term operations.

- Proactive and context-aware: They don’t just react - they anticipate. Using contextual data, agents make informed decisions and initiate actions based on projected needs and outcomes.

- Specialized and scalable: Agents can be customized for specific functions - some designed for repetitive tasks, others for high-level reasoning. Architectures can be vertical (hierarchical) or horizontal (peer-based), depending on the complexity of the task.

- Learning and adaptation: Agents continuously refine their actions based on feedback. This allows them to improve over time, making them ideal for environments that evolve quickly.

- Natural language interfaces: Agentic AI can be controlled via plain English or voice commands, making user interfaces as simple as talking to a colleague. This drastically reduces the time needed to learn new tools.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/explained-the-u-s-visa-crisis-leaving-indians-in-immigration-limbo-67951.htm">Explained: The U.S. visa crisis leaving Indians in immigration limbo</a>

How does Agentic AI work?

Agentic AI systems follow a defined lifecycle that mimics human reasoning and execution:

- Perception: Gathers real-time data from sensors, databases, or user inputs.

- Reasoning: Interprets the data using NLP, computer vision, or other methods.

- Goal setting: Creates plans based on user input or preset objectives.

- Decision-making: Chooses the best actions based on multiple possible outcomes.

- Execution: Acts on decisions by calling APIs, interfacing with software, or producing responses.

- Learning: Adapts over time using feedback loops and reinforcement learning.

- Orchestration: Manages multiple agents, workflows, and resources for complex tasks.

Use cases

- Customer service: Agentic chatbots go beyond answering FAQs. They predict issues, initiate refunds, and even audit their own content for compliance. Startups like Ema AI are already using such agents to revolutionize customer experience.

- Manufacturing: AI agents can detect wear-and-tear, optimize energy usage, and even redesign product flows. Juna.ai runs virtual factories powered by such agents for efficiency and sustainability.

- Sales support: Salesforce’s Agent Force helps human sales teams by analyzing customer communications, setting up meetings, and giving personalized coaching through AI-powered role-play.

- Healthcare and social support: Hippocratic AI has developed agents like "Sarah" and "Judy" to assist elderly patients, guide them through pre-op procedures, and help caregivers with daily logistics.

- Cybersecurity: Agents can monitor system logs and network traffic to detect and respond to threats in real-time - faster than most human analysts could.

- Supply chain optimization: AI agents autonomously manage supply chains - placing orders, adjusting production, and preventing overstock or shortages based on real-time analytics.

Challenges and risks

Despite its promise, agentic AI isn't without risks.

Reward hacking

Because many agentic systems use reinforcement learning, poorly designed reward systems can lead to unintended consequences. For example: 

- An AI optimizing for engagement might spread clickbait or misinformation.

- A warehouse bot may damage products to move faster.

- A financial AI could exploit loopholes in pursuit of short-term gains.

Over-autonomy

If left unchecked, agentic systems can spiral. Without human oversight or built-in guardrails, agents might escalate behaviour or cause bottlenecks and conflicts - especially in large, multiagent systems.

Ethical concerns

Autonomous systems acting without clear boundaries could affect jobs, privacy, and decision-making in high-stakes environments like healthcare and finance.

Agentic AI is still emerging, but it’s quickly moving from concept to deployment. Whether in customer service, logistics, medicine, or manufacturing, these systems offer a powerful combination of independence and collaboration. But with power comes responsibility - developers and enterprises must build in transparency, ethics, and oversight.

In short, agentic AI could become the backbone of the next era of productivity, but only if we steer it with foresight and care.

Agentic AI marks a shift from passive tools to autonomous collaborators. It’s not just about what AI can create - but what it can do.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/social-media/taco-to-fafo-donald-trump-era-acronyms-explained-68235.htm">TACO to FAFO: Donald Trump era acronyms explained!</a>

Explained: What is 'Agentic AI' and why it's a big leap from generative AI

Commerce-tainment is a portmanteau of “commerce” and “entertainment” and is the convergence of shopping and content. It refers to retail experiences that are designed to entertain while driving transactions, turning traditional e-commerce into something more immersive, engaging and emotionally resonant. Think of it as shopping meets storytelling.

This trend, originating in China with the explosion of live commerce on platforms like Douyin, is now finding footholds across global and Indian markets. In essence, commerce-tainment transforms passive browsing into interactive, content-driven shopping experiences through formats like livestreams, influencer videos, gamified shopping or branded shows.

Gary Vaynerchuk, the entrepreneur and social media personality known as Gary Vee, has a more nuanced definition of commerce-tainment, specifically, and its form. In his view, the most effective way to sell in the digital age isn’t through hard sells or banner ads, but by creating content that captivates and connects.

Vaynerchuk’s approach centers on delivering value first: think engaging stories, practical advice or community-driven content, with product sales woven in subtly. Rather than interrupting users with marketing, he advocates for becoming the entertainment - building trust and loyalty through content that resonates. As audiences grow increasingly resistant to traditional advertising, Vaynerchuk believes commercetainment isn’t just a trend — it’s table stakes.

Why is Commerce-tainment the future?

Modern consumers — especially younger millennials and Gen Z — are content-first shoppers. They don’t just want a product; they want context, entertainment and inspiration around it. Traditional e-commerce often lacks the emotional connection or community feeling that physical retail or social media offers. Forms of commerce-tainment fill that gap by integrating storytelling, real-time engagement and social validation into the buying journey. India may be behind the curve, but startups and platforms are already testing similar waters.

Key Formats of Commerce-tainment

Live Commerce: Influencers or hosts demonstrate products live, answer questions, and close sales in real time. Example: Myntra’s “M-Live” and Flipkart’s live shopping integrations with influencers during festive sales.

Shoppable Videos: These are short or long-form videos where products are clickable and purchasable directly within the video. Example: YouTube’s shopping tab or Amazon MiniTV featuring branded content linked to product pages.

Gamified Shopping: Brands use quizzes, spin-the-wheel, treasure hunts, or reward-based tasks to keep users engaged and drive conversions. Example: Meesho’s and Flipkart’s app-based games during Big Billion Days.

Branded Entertainment: This involves brands producing full-fledged shows or series with subtle product placements or direct commerce hooks. Example: Netflix’s partnership with Walmart to create a shoppable hub for hit shows like “Stranger Things” merchandise.

Social Commerce + UGC: User-generated content drives inspiration. Fashion brands often use customer reels and styling videos to spark purchases. Example: Ajio and Nykaa’s style creator programs or Instagram’s shop integrations.

Trell and Roposo have both tried influencer-led, vernacular video commerce with varying success. Amazon MiniTV is blending entertainment and shopping by embedding brand partners into its shows. Tata Neu and JioMart are also experimenting with in-app entertainment formats tied to sales. Nykaa runs regular Instagram Lives where makeup artists demonstrate looks using their products with links to purchase.

Commerce-tainment is a paradigm shift in how brands connect with digital-first consumers. As attention spans shrink and expectations for authentic, entertaining experiences grow, this fusion of content and commerce offers a powerful new playbook for engagement and conversion. From livestreams to shoppable series, brands that embrace different forms of Commerce-tainment are building communities, creating stories and turning transactions into moments of delight. As India’s digital ecosystem matures, commerce-tainment could well be the future of online retail, one where storytelling sells.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/explained-lol-for-roi-why-meme-marketing-is-the-internets-favorite-ad-strategy-65497.htm">Read More: Explained: LOL for ROI - why Meme Marketing is the Internet’s favorite ad strategy</a>

Commercetainment Explained: The future is a blend of content, entertainment and shopping

In the wake of President Donald J. Trump’s return to the White House, a new wave of acronyms has entered the financial and political vernacular, some satirical, some strategic, but nearly all reflective of the volatility and spectacle that have defined his second term so far.

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These slogans mirror the branding instincts of the president himself. From MAGA to MAHA, Trump has long favored catchphrases. Now, market-watchers, political observers and online commentators have responded in kind, coining terms that encapsulate the shifting landscape of global finance and diplomacy under Trump 2.0.

Here are some of the most prominent entries in this growing glossary of acronym-driven commentary:

TACO (Trump Always Chickens Out)

This term emerged after Trump’s April 2 “Liberation Day” speech, in which he pledged sweeping tariffs that were later quietly scaled back. The acronym, first published by a Financial Times columnist, was quickly adopted to describe a familiar pattern of rhetorical escalation followed by policy retreat. TACO has since become shorthand for the administration’s tendency to step back from economic brinkmanship, often after markets or foreign governments react negatively.

MEGA (Make Europe Great Again)

Originally coined during Trump’s first term in response to Europe’s quest for economic self-sufficiency, MEGA returned to relevance this spring amid renewed interest in European equities. As Trump’s trade policies prompted capital outflows from U.S. markets, investors redirected attention toward the Eurozone. MEGA hats, an intentional parody of Trump’s MAGA caps, have appeared online, emblematic of the continent’s bid to reassert itself on the global stage.

MAGA (Make America Go Away)

A subversive reworking of Trump’s signature slogan, this variation surfaced after Vice President J.D. Vance’s abortive diplomatic trip to Greenland, an echo of Trump’s 2019 interest in acquiring the autonomous Danish territory. While partly tongue-in-cheek, the phrase has come to represent growing international exasperation with the administration’s disruptive foreign policy. In some Canadian and European financial circles, the term now signals a desire to reduce exposure to U.S. markets altogether.

YOLO (You Only Live Once)

Though predating Trump’s political career, YOLO took on new life during his first presidency as a catchphrase for speculative, risk-heavy investing. It epitomized the high-momentum trades, from meme stocks to cryptocurrency, that surged amid pro-business rhetoric and deregulation. While not unique to the Trump era, the term’s resurgence in market discourse highlights the reckless optimism that periodically overtakes segments of the financial world.

FAFO (an expletive acronym meaning “Face Consequences”)

FAFO has become an unofficial label for the whiplash effect of policymaking by provocation. Often used in online political and financial subcultures, the phrase describes the consequences of unpredictable governance, whether through abrupt trade decisions, diplomatic reversals or public feuds. In financial circles, the acronym conveys a sense of exasperation at the erratic inputs that now routinely move markets.

In the Trump era, even market language isn’t safe from branding.

Interestingly, the Trump administration’s Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission released its first report last week, but the document is already drawing scrutiny for numerous inaccuracies, including references to studies that appear not to exist. The citation errors were first uncovered by NOTUS, a nonprofit and nonpartisan news outlet founded by former Politico publisher Robert Allbritton.

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In recent months, Indian nationals aspiring to study, work, or settle in the United States have encountered a series of escalating challenges. 

From abrupt halts in student visa interviews to prolonged green card backlogs, the evolving U.S. immigration landscape under the Trump administration has introduced significant uncertainties. 

These developments not only disrupt individual aspirations but also have broader implications for educational institutions and bilateral relations between India and the U.S.

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Here's a breakdown of immigration hurdles faced by Indians.

Suspension of student visa interviews

The U.S. State Department has temporarily paused the scheduling of new student visa interviews worldwide, including in India. This decision, part of an initiative to expand social media vetting of applicants, has left many Indian students in limbo, uncertain about their academic futures in the U.S.

While students with existing appointments can proceed, those without scheduled interviews face delays. The U.S. Embassy in India has clarified that this pause is temporary and that new slots will be made available soon.

Enhanced social media scrutiny

The Trump administration's emphasis on national security has led to intensified scrutiny of visa applicants' social media profiles. Particularly, individuals expressing views critical of U.S. policies or involved in certain political activities may face heightened examination.

This increased surveillance has raised concerns among prospective students and professionals about privacy and the potential for misinterpretation of online content.

Green card backlogs for H-1B holders

Indian professionals on H-1B visas are experiencing significant delays in obtaining green cards, primarily due to outdated country-specific quotas. 

Despite India being a major source of STEM talent, the annual cap on green cards has not been adjusted to reflect current demand, resulting in wait times that can span decades.

Proposed legislative changes, such as the Fairness for High Skilled Immigrants Act, aim to address these disparities by eliminating per-country caps. However, these reforms have yet to be enacted, leaving many in prolonged uncertainty.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/explained-what-scrapping-the-6-equalisation-levy-could-mean-for-big-tech-india-and-domestic-media-60189.htm">EXPLAINED: What scrapping the 6% Equalisation Levy could mean for Big Tech, India, and Domestic Media</a>

Impact on U.S. educational institutions

The visa restrictions and uncertainties are not only affecting students but also U.S. educational institutions that rely heavily on international enrollments. 

Indian students constitute a significant portion of the international student body, and their potential decline could have financial implications for universities. 

Some institutions have already reported concerns about decreased enrollment and the associated economic impact, prompting calls for policy reassessment.

Shift towards alternative destinations

In light of the challenges faced in securing U.S. visas, many Indian students and professionals are exploring alternative countries for education and employment opportunities. 

Nations like Canada, Australia, and European countries are witnessing increased interest due to their more accommodating immigration policies and clearer pathways to permanent residency.

This shift could have long-term implications for the U.S.'s position as a preferred destination for international talent.

The current U.S. immigration policies present significant hurdles for Indian nationals seeking to study, work, or settle in the country. 

While national security and policy integrity are valid concerns, the balance between these priorities and the aspirations of international applicants is delicate. As the situation evolves, prospective applicants are advised to stay informed through official channels and consider alternative pathways to achieve their goals.

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Explained: The U.S. visa crisis leaving Indians in immigration limbo

The internet went bonkers on May 5, 2025, as Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan made his much-anticipated debut at the Met Gala—draped in a regal ensemble by Indian couturier Sabyasachi Mukherjee.

Held at the iconic Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, this year's Met Gala not only rolled out a royal blue carpet but also rolled in a celebration of style, identity, and global influence.

But, what is the Met Gala, really? Why do people care so much about what global celebrities wear to a museum party? And how did a midnight dinner for New York socialites turn into fashion's most viral night?

Let's break it down.

Every first Monday of May, the steps of New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art are transformed into a global runway. 

But behind the gowns, glitz, and paparazzi flashes lies a storied tradition with deep roots in fashion history and philanthropy. The Met Gala, officially known as the Costume Institute Benefit, is a fundraising gala for the museum's Costume Institute—its only self-funded department.

Met Gala 2025: India's big moment on the blue carpet

This year, the carpet wasn't red—it was royal blue. And one of the world's biggest stars, Shah Rukh Khan, made his much-anticipated Met Gala debut, exuding effortless charm with iconic Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee. King Khan was joined by icons like Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Kiara Advani, and Diljit Dosanjh, Isha Ambani, Natasha Poonawalla, and Manish Malhotra.

Their appearance wasn't just a fashion moment—it was a cultural milestone, igniting celebrations among Indian and South Asian fans worldwide.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-marketing/bollywood-shines-bright-at-met-gala-2025-and-brands-couldnt-keep-calm-64688.htm">Bollywood shines bright at Met Gala 2025—And brands couldn't keep calm!</a>

A brief history

The Met Gala wasn't always the global fashion spectacle it is today. It began in 1948 as a modest midnight dinner at the Waldorf Astoria, created by fashion publicist Eleanor Lambert to raise funds for the newly formed Costume Institute. Guests paid $150 per seat.

Everything changed in the 1970s when legendary Vogue editor Diana Vreeland came on board. Themes were introduced, celebrities joined the guest list, and fashion became performance. 

When Anna Wintour took over in 1995, she transformed the event into a cultural juggernaut—expanding its scope and exclusivity.

2025 Theme: Superfine: Tailoring Black Style

Each year, the Gala's theme aligns with the Costume Institute's annual exhibition. Past themes have ranged from "Camp: Notes on Fashion" to "Heavenly Bodies". Themes are often interpreted literally, metaphorically, or not at all—and that's part of the spectacle.

The 2025 theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," celebrated Black fashion history and dandyism. The theme sparked powerful conversations around representation and legacy. The exhibit showcased the evolution of Black excellence in fashion—from Harlem Renaissance zoot suits to contemporary couture.

Attendees delivered bold, nuanced takes on the theme—from Rihanna's signature Marc Jacobs ensemble to Zendaya's custom-tailored zoot suit (Zoot suits are popular for their high-waisted, tight cuff silhouettes). Yet, SRK's graceful entry in custom couture made headlines for both its elegance and significance.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-marketing/woven-in-india-walked-by-the-world-keralas-neytt-crafts-met-gala-2025s-iconic-blue-carpet-64992.htm">Woven in India, walked by the world: Kerala's 'Neytt' crafts Met Gala 2025's iconic blue carpet</a>

So, who gets to attend?

Not just anyone. Tickets cost approximately $75,000 and a table can go upwards of $350,000. But here's the kicker: money doesn't guarantee entry. Every attendee must be approved by Anna Wintour. 

This year's guest list included Shah Rukh Khan, Kim Kardashian, Mindy Kaling, Billie Eilish, Spike Lee, Shakira, Bad Bunny, with designers like Thom Browne, Marc Jacobs, and Prabal Gurung also in attendance.

What happens inside the Met Gala?

The event is notoriously private. Cameras are off-limits once guests step inside. No selfies. No smoking. No social posts. The goal? To keep the focus on fashion and art, not influencer clout. It's part museum tour, part haute couture dinner party, and part elite mixer—with performances, celebrity mingling, and a first look at the exhibition

Can you watch it?

While the Gala itself remains exclusive, the red carpet is streamed online (primarily via Vogue) and replayed endlessly on social media. 

It's here that the internet gets involved—rating looks, debating themes, and creating memes. Once the event concludes, the exhibit opens to the public, allowing fashion lovers to experience the artistry up close.

Why does the Met Gala matter?

It’s more than just celebrity eye-candy. It’s a powerful moment of creative expression, a fundraiser for fashion as an art form, and a cultural mirror of the times. From political statements to cultural breakthroughs—the Met Gala is where fashion, identity, and storytelling meet.

SRK's dazzling debut, secret guest rules & $75k tickets: Met Gala EXPLAINED!

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