Bollywood star Kriti Sanon has hit back at online trolls and critics following severe backlash over her wardrobe choices and creative themes in a recent Raksha Bandhan commercial for a popular jewellery brand. The controversy erupted after social media users, along with actor-politician Kangana Ranaut, publicly criticized the campaign’s modern styling. Critics pointed fingers at Kriti’s attire—an ivory modern ensemble featuring a bralette-style blouse with a draped skirt and cape—and questioned the inclusion of a pet dog in the festive ritual. Taking to her Instagram Stories to address the moral policing directly, Kriti delivered a strong, candid message, asserting that the true essence of any festival is rooted in deep emotions and pure intentions rather than rigid dress codes or traditional expectations.
Elaborating on her personal connection to the festival, Kriti stated that Raksha Bandhan represents a sacred bond of love and protection that goes far beyond conventional family structures. She highlighted that she and her sister Nupur Sanon have always tied rakhis to each other with the mutual promise to protect and support one another just as fiercely as any brother would. Kriti further explained that in their family, this bond of love and care extends to their beloved pet dogs, who are treated as equal family members deserving of inclusion in the festive celebration. Questioning why female celebrities are constantly subjected to outfit policing during cultural occasions, the actress pointed out that while ethnic fashion has naturally evolved over time, society continues to unfairly judge a woman’s respect for her heritage based on her clothes.
Concluding her statement with a powerful viral line, Kriti wrote that culture and traditions live inside a woman’s heart, not in her neckline. Her candid stand has drawn immense praise from fans, netzens, and fellow industry members, who commended her for taking a firm stand against wardrobe shaming and embracing an inclusive view of modern Indian celebrations. Her response has ignited an important online dialogue around evolving festive traditions, individual freedom in fashion, and dismantling double standards faced by women in modern entertainment.