Kriti Sanon’s Raksha Bandhan ad caused massive friction online, following which the brand pulled down the video. Featuring Kriti in a bralette-style blouse, a cape and a draped skirt, the ad received heavy criticism for the kind of attire shown for the festival. Before the ad was pulled down, Kriti Sanon addressed the matter by sharing, “The essence of festivals is not in the clothes you wear; it is in the emotions and meaning you hold for the traditions. Rakshabandhan is a bond of protection. My sister and I tie rakhi to each other.” Her response didn’t sit well with the netizens, who believe it is not about the freedom to wear what you feel, but about festival-appropriate attire.
Netizens slams Kriti Sanon after she defends herself over the Raksha Bandhan ad
In her response to the Raksha Bandhan ad, Kriti Sanon emphasised that on festivals what matters is the emotion and not clothes. She also asked, “When will we stop telling women what to wear??” The actress then concluded by saying, “Ethnic fashion has evolved over the years, but still a woman’s respect for her culture is measured with just her clothes!! Culture & Traditions are in her heart, not in her neckline!”The internet didn’t agree with her statement; one of the netizens wrote, “Clothes matter. Then why, at birthdays and weddings we wear new clothes? Why do we cover our heads in a gurudwara? Why traditional clothes in Diwali? Our emotions are also expressed through how we present ourselves. Otherwise, let the schools and army need not have uniforms, or let festivals be in any attire u want to be in, like a bralette top… would save lots of money and still emotions be conveyed.”Another internet user quipped, “Try wearing kurta pyjama to a swimming pool then.” Meanwhile, a third netizen chimed in, “There are some etiquette to be followed when you are celebrating a festival. We are just asking you to follow that. You know how other religions get upset when you dress such in their festive ad, and then don’t you know how you are leading an example to the young generation.”“I beg ur pardon, Ma’am. In this era, we all need to preserve our culture. Be it of any religion- plz be helpful. No bad feelings for anyone, but we can stay alert regarding religious sentiments & festival emotions,” highlighted another internet user.
Why did the brand pull down Kriti Sanon’s Raksha Bandhan?
The jewellery brand on Wednesday apologised for unintentionally offending the sentiments of the masses and removed the ad from all media platforms. Citing the reason in a social media post, the brand wrote, “If our recent advertisement has inadvertently hurt the sentiments of some segments of society, that was not our intent at all. Out of respect, we have withdrawn the said advertisement from all media. Wish you all the love & positivity this festive season!”
