Kriti Sanon hits back trolls after row over Rakshabandhan ad: ‘Focusing on…’

Bollywood actor Kriti Sanon received a major backlash on the internet over her appearance in a festive advertisement. The now-deleted ad had her celebrating Rakshabandhan with her on-screen brother and pet, which received mixed reactions from the netizens. Although the brand, Giva, has now taken down the ad, many continue to slam Sanon over her choice of clothes after she came out in support of it.

Kriti Sanon's Rakshabandhan post after backlash

On Friday, Kriti Sanon took to Instagram and posted a photo, sharing a glimpse of her Raksha Bandhan celebration. She shared a picture with her sister Nupur Sanon and took a slight dig at those who have been moral policing her choice of outfit.

In her photo, only the hands of the Sanon sisters were seen. The sisters held hands as both of them were wearing rakhis. The actress chose not to put up her full photo, seemingly to avoid controversy over her outfits once again.

In the caption, the Mimi actor made it clear that she wants to focus on all things positive on the occasion. She wrote, "While the Rakhi fashion committee is still in session 🙈 We’re focusing on what really matters. ♥️👭 Happy Rakhi to all ♥️."

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Netizens react

Her post is currently winning hearts on the internet.

Commenting on it, a fan wrote, “Thank you for speaking up and taking a stand when it mattered the most. Happy Rakhi!”

“Unshaken - Unbothered - Unstoppable,” added another.

A different user argued, “Sorry, ma’am. I feel that you tried to change the controversy into a gender issue, when it was actually about sentiments, beliefs, and culture. I don’t think you tried to understand that perspective. Even now, it feels like you are trying to prove that you are right rather than trying to understand the cultural side of the situation. I understand that you were being professional, and I respect that. But I also believe we need to understand the difference between what is considered professional and what is connected to someone’s culture and beliefs.”

Rakshabandhan ad controversy explained

Earlier, many on the internet, including MP Kangana Ranaut, slammed Kriti Sanon over her attire for the festive ad.

Reacting to it, Kriti Sanon had clarified, "Raksha Bandhan is a bond of protection. My sister and I tie rakhi to each other. We know we can protect each other just as much as a brother would. We pray for each other's health, happiness, and long life. For us, this prayer and promise extend to our dogs too. After all, they are family!"

"Also, when will we stop telling women what to wear? Ethnic fashion has evolved over the years, yet a woman's respect for her culture is still measured by her clothes. Culture and traditions are in her heart, not in her neckline!”

However, Giva, the jewellery brand, later removed the ad.

In a statement shared on Instagram, the brand said it has the "highest regard and deep respect" for Indian culture, traditions and festivals.

"We have the highest regard and deep respect for Indian culture, traditions and festivals.As a brand, we have always believed in celebrating these joyous moments with the entire family and this time we wanted to extend the love and celebration to our pets," it said.