Under the bright lights of Dubai Fashion Week 2026, designer Manish Malhotra brought a slice of India to the global stage with his latest couture showcase, The India Story: Inaya 2026. Known for blending tradition with modern glamour, the couturier presented a collection that celebrated Indian craftsmanship while embracing international silhouettes.
Actor and entrepreneur Kriti Sanon took centre stage as Manish Malhotra’s muse for the evening, making her international runway debut in a striking pearl-laden look. She walked the ramp in an ivory two-piece ensemble featuring a pearl and diamond embellished bustier paired with a skirt draped in delicate strings of pearls. The look was elevated with a sheer dupatta detailed with pearl tassels, adding a dramatic yet elegant finish. To break the monochrome palette, Kriti wore emerald and diamond drop earrings, a ring and stacked bracelets from Manish Malhotra Jewellery.
Her grand finale walk unfolded to the iconic song Ramba Ho Ho Ho, giving the moment a retro, celebratory feel. With this appearance, Kriti Sanon not only closed the show but also marked a major milestone in her career by stepping onto an international runway for the first time.
For Manish Malhotra, who often refers to Dubai as his second home, this was his second consecutive outing as the grand finale designer at the event. His collection reflected a forward-looking vision while staying rooted in traditional Indian storytelling. Every outfit on the runway carried a sense of drama, combining sequins, rich colours and bold cuts with the brand’s signature styling.
While pearls stole the spotlight in Kriti Sanon’s closing look, the Inaya 2026 collection featured several standout pieces expected to dominate red carpets and wedding wardrobes this year. The showcase also highlighted Manish Malhotra Fine Jewellery, with statement emerald and diamond pieces shining alongside the couture, completing the designer’s glamorous world on the runway.
