Oscar Awards 2026: Priyanka Chopra turns heads in white, Nick Jonas’ 'kalava' detail wins the internet

Oscar Awards 2026: The spotlight at the 98th Academy Awards wasn’t limited to the winners on stage. On the red carpet at the iconic Dolby Theatre, global star Priyanka Chopra arrived in a look that instantly set social media buzzing. Elegant, understated and striking, her appearance reminded audiences why she continues to command attention on one of Hollywood’s biggest nights. But while Chopra dazzled in couture, her husband Nick Jonas sparked an entirely different conversation online, with fans noticing a small cultural detail that quickly became the internet’s favourite talking point.

Priyanka Chopra returns to the Oscars stage

The 98th edition of the Academy Awards saw Priyanka Chopra step in as a presenter, marking her return to the ceremony after a long gap. Known for seamlessly navigating both Bollywood and Hollywood, the actor’s presence added a familiar global touch to the evening.

Chopra arrived in a custom-made white gown from Dior’s Spring 2026 couture collection. The strapless ensemble featured a feathered trim that added texture while maintaining a clean and elegant silhouette. The design highlighted her shoulders and neckline, creating a timeless red-carpet look.

She paired the gown with a statement necklace, letting the jewellery add sparkle without overpowering the outfit. Her hair was styled in sleek, centre-parted soft waves, complementing the gown’s refined structure and giving the entire look a polished Hollywood glamour.

A sneak peek before the red carpet

Hours before stepping onto the red carpet, Chopra offered fans a glimpse of her preparations through Instagram Stories. The actor shared behind-the-scenes moments from her getting-ready routine, building anticipation ahead of her appearance at one of the most prestigious award ceremonies in the world.

The all-white ensemble quickly caught the attention of fashion watchers online, with many praising the minimalist yet powerful styling choice that balanced classic elegance with contemporary sophistication.

Nick Jonas’ candid Oscars moment

While Priyanka Chopra captivated fashion enthusiasts, Nick Jonas added a lighter moment to the evening before the couple walked the red carpet together.

Dressed in a velvet double-breasted suit, Jonas shared a candid video on his social media account showing himself sipping water and cooling down ahead of the ceremony. He joked about the warm weather in Los Angeles, explaining that the temperature had climbed to around 85 degrees (about 29.4 °C), making the momentary break a necessity before stepping out.

Fans quickly noticed another detail in the clip. The singer was wearing a kalava, the sacred red-and-yellow thread traditionally tied around the wrist in many Hindu rituals. The subtle accessory stood out to viewers, who appreciated the cultural touch alongside his formal Oscars attire.

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Internet reacts

Social media users were quick to comment on the detail, with many expressing delight at spotting the kalava on Jonas’ wrist. Several viewers said the thread instantly caught their attention, calling it an unexpected yet charming addition to his look.

Others reacted playfully to the situation, pointing out the contrast between the heavy velvet suit and the hot Los Angeles weather. Some fans also defended the singer from overanalysis, noting that he had previously spoken about the thread and even referenced it in earlier online content.