

Photo: IANS
Actress Kriti Sanon has responded to the controversy surrounding her Raksha Bandhan advertisement with a light-hearted social media post, choosing humour and a focus on family rather than directly engaging with her critics.
Amid the debate over her outfit in a jewellery advertisement that was later withdrawn, Kriti shared a picture of her and her sister Nupur Sanon’s hands adorned with rakhi on Friday.
Alongside the picture, the ‘Mimi’ actress wrote, “While the Rakhi fashion committee is still in session...We’re focusing on what really matters. Happy Rakhi to all.”
The caption appeared to be a subtle response to the criticism she faced over her appearance in the advertisement, while also making it clear that she did not want the controversy to overshadow the meaning of the festival.
Several social media users backed Kriti, praising her for highlighting the personal and emotional significance of Raksha Bandhan rather than getting caught up in a debate over clothing.
One user wrote that people should be free to celebrate festivals in their own way and pointed to India’s diversity in traditions and customs. Another thanked the actress for speaking up, while others described her post as an effective response to the trolling.
The controversy began after Kriti featured in a GIVA jewellery advertisement released around Raksha Bandhan. She was seen wearing an off-white outfit comprising a bralette-style blouse, cape and draped skirt. A section of social media users objected to the attire, arguing that it did not align with their understanding of traditional Indian dress for the festival. The advertisement was subsequently withdrawn by the brand.
Kriti had earlier addressed the criticism in a social media note, stressing that the essence of a festival should not be reduced to clothing.
She explained that for her and Nupur, Raksha Bandhan represents a mutual bond of protection, as the sisters tie rakhi to each other and pray for one another’s health, happiness and long life.
The actress also added a personal touch, saying that the same love and prayers extend to their dogs, whom they consider part of the family.
Her latest post keeps that focus firmly on the relationship between the sisters. Rather than revisiting the controversy, Kriti appears to be reminding her followers that festivals can carry different meanings for different families and that the emotions behind a tradition may matter more than how it is visually presented.
