“Culture Is in the Heart, Not the Neckline”: Kriti Sanon Hits Back at Rakshabandhan Ad Backlash
Bollywood star Kriti Sanon has broken her silence following a wave of online criticism directed at a recent jewellery advertisement celebrating the festival of Rakshabandhan. The controversy, which saw the actress face intense scrutiny over her choice of attire, has ignited a broader conversation about the societal policing of women’s clothing.
The Controversy Explained
The backlash began after a brand campaign featured Sanon wearing an ensemble that some social media users deemed inappropriate for a traditional festive setting. Detractors argued that the outfit, which some described as resembling a bralette rather than conventional ethnic wear, failed to align with the sanctity of the festival.
The situation was further amplified when fellow actress Kangana Ranaut weighed in on the matter, publicly labeling the advertisement as “intentionally creepy.” The remarks fueled a polarizing debate across social media platforms, with many questioning the fashion choices made by the brand and the actress.
Kriti Sanon’s Defiant Response
Taking to Instagram to address the situation, Sanon delivered a sharp and heartfelt rebuttal to her critics. She emphasized that the true spirit of Rakshabandhan transcends superficial appearances.
“The essence of festivals is not in the clothes you wear; it is in the emotions and meaning you hold for the traditions,” Sanon wrote. She shared a personal anecdote about her own traditions, noting that she and her sister observe the festival by tying rakhis to each other—a practice they extend to their pets.
The actress expressed frustration at the persistent judgment women face regarding their sartorial choices, particularly when those choices are used to measure their respect for culture.
“When will we stop telling women what to wear? Ethnic fashion has evolved over the years, but still, a woman’s respect for her culture is measured with just her clothes!” she declared. She concluded her statement with a powerful message that resonated with many of her followers: “Culture & Traditions are in her heart, not in her neckline!”
Looking Ahead
While this controversy has dominated the headlines, Sanon’s professional trajectory continues to draw attention. The actress was recently seen in Homi Adajania’s Cocktail 2, a spiritual sequel to the 2012 hit, which also stars Shahid Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna. Following its theatrical run on June 19, 2026, the film is currently available for viewers on Netflix.
As the industry debates the balance between modern fashion and traditional expectations, Kriti Sanon remains focused on her craft, with fans eagerly awaiting the announcement of her next cinematic project.
