Mumbai, August 25, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Actress Kriti Sanon has responded to criticism over her outfit in a recent Raksha Bandhan advertisement, saying that the essence of festivals lies in the emotions and traditions they represent rather than in what women wear.
Kriti addressed the controversy in a note shared on Instagram on Tuesday after her appearance in a jewellery brand GIVA’s Raksha Bandhan campaign sparked an online debate.
For the advertisement, the ‘Mimi’ actress wore an off-white ensemble featuring a bralette-style blouse, a cape and a draped skirt. Several social media users criticised the outfit, arguing that it was inappropriate for a campaign centred on the traditional Indian festival.
Responding to the criticism, Kriti said Raksha Bandhan represents a bond of protection and shared how she and her sister celebrate the occasion.
She said she and her sister tie rakhi to each other and believe they can protect one another just as a brother would. She added that they pray for each other’s health, happiness and long life, extending the same affection and prayers to their dogs, whom they consider family.
Kriti also questioned the practice of judging a woman’s respect for her culture based on her clothing.
“Ethnic fashion has evolved over the years, but still a woman’s respect for her culture is measured with just her clothes,” she said, arguing that culture and traditions are rooted in a person’s values rather than clothing.
Her comments came a day after actress and politician Kangana Ranaut also weighed in on the controversy. Without directly naming Kriti, Ranaut said women today have access to a wide range of fashion choices but suggested that certain boundaries should be maintained while observing traditional occasions.
Ranaut listed various forms of contemporary and traditional clothing and questioned why a woman would choose to wear a bikini or undergarments while tying a Rakhi to her brother.
The exchange has brought renewed attention to the debate over women’s clothing, cultural traditions and expectations surrounding public celebrations of Indian festivals.
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