India | 25 Aug 2026
Actor Kriti Sanon has defended her Raksha Bandhan advertisement following criticism of her attire and the campaign’s inclusion of a pet dog, arguing that a woman’s respect for culture should not be judged by her clothes.
The Bollywood actor addressed the controversy through an Instagram Story on Tuesday after the jewellery campaign generated divided reactions online and drew criticism from actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut.
Kriti Sanon Responds to Raksha Bandhan Ad Criticism
Sanon said the meaning of a festival comes from the emotions and significance attached to its traditions, rather than the clothes worn during the celebration.
She explained that she and her sister, Nupur Sanon, tie rakhis to each other because they believe they can protect one another as much as a brother could. She added that their prayers for health, happiness and longevity also extend to their dogs, whom they consider family.
Sanon also questioned why women continued to be told what they should wear and said ethnic fashion had evolved over time.
“Culture & Traditions are in her heart, not in her neckline!”
— Kriti Sanon, actor
Although her statement came after Ranaut’s remarks, Sanon did not name the actor-politician directly.
Why the GIVA Campaign Sparked Debate
The Raksha Bandhan advertisement for jewellery brand GIVA features Sanon in an off-white bralette-style blouse, cape and draped skirt. It also includes a sequence in which she ties a rakhi to a dog.
Some social media users objected to the outfit and questioned the absence of familiar ceremonial elements such as a puja thali and tilak. Others defended the campaign and said the criticism amounted to policing a woman’s clothing.
Ranaut joined the debate through an Instagram Story on Monday. She questioned the choice of an outfit she compared with a bikini or undergarments and described the advertisement as appearing “intentionally creepy”.
Nupur Sanon Backs Her Sister
Nupur Sanon subsequently reposted her sister’s statement and criticised those objecting to the actor’s clothing.
“Imagine being this bothered by what another woman chooses to wear. Respectfully, EVOLVE!”
— Nupur Sanon, actor and singer
Nupur said she was the sister to whom Kriti tied the rakhi and questioned why others should object when she herself had no problem with it.
The dispute has developed into a wider social-media debate over women’s clothing, contemporary advertising and the representation of traditional festivals.
