Kriti Sanon Responds to Rakhi Ad Critics: 'Culture Is in Her Heart, Not in Her Neckline'

Bollywood actor Kriti Sanon has responded to online criticism over her outfit in a recent Raksha Bandhan advertisement, using her own Rakhi celebration with sister Nupur to make a point.

Sharing a photo of the rakhis the sisters tied on each other, Sanon wrote on Instagram: "While the Rakhi fashion committee is still in session... We're focusing on what really matters. Happy Rakhi to all." The caption was widely praised by fans, with many calling it a fitting reply to the trolls.

The controversy began after Sanon appeared in the ad wearing a contemporary ensemble featuring a bralette-style blouse, cape, and draped skirt. A section of social media users questioned whether the outfit was appropriate for the festival.

In a separate post, the 'Mimi' actor elaborated on her stance. "The essence of festivals is not in the clothes you wear; it is in the emotions and meaning you hold for the traditions," she wrote. She added that she and her sister tie rakhis to each other, believing they can protect one another just as well as any brother, and that their prayer extends to their dogs as well.

Sanon also questioned why a woman's clothing continues to be treated as a measure of her respect for culture. "Culture & Traditions are in her heart, not in her neckline!" she asserted.

Meanwhile, jewellery brand GIVA, which had released the advertisement, withdrew it following the backlash. In a statement, the company said it respects Indian culture and traditions and that hurting religious or cultural sentiments was never its intention.