Kriti Sanon has responded to the criticism surrounding her appearance in a Raksha Bandhan advertisement, questioning why a woman’s clothing continues to become a measure of her cultural values.
The controversy followed the release of a jewellery brand’s festive campaign featuring Kriti. In the advertisement, she is seen tying a rakhi to her pet dog before celebrating the festival with her brother.
While the concept attracted attention, her ivory outfit, which included a bralette-style blouse, skirt and shrug, became a subject of criticism online.
The issue gained further attention after actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut criticised the advertisement. She questioned the styling and described the campaign as “intentionally creepy”.
Kriti subsequently addressed the controversy in an Instagram statement, asking when society would stop dictating what women should wear.
She argued that ethnic fashion has changed considerably over the years and maintained that a woman’s connection with culture and tradition should not be judged by the clothes she wears.
Her sister Nupur Sanon also came to her defence, making it clear that Kriti’s choice of outfit did not matter to her while celebrating Raksha Bandhan.
The jewellery company eventually pulled the advertisement on August 26. In its statement, the brand said the decision was taken out of respect after the campaign unintentionally upset sections of the audience.
The episode has once again sparked discussion online over women’s clothing, cultural expectations and the scrutiny faced by female celebrities during traditional festivals.
