When Will We Stop Telling Women What to Wear?’: Kriti Sanon responds to jewellery Ad backlash
“When will we stop telling women what to wear?” actor Kriti Sanon asked in response to the controversy surrounding a jewellery brand’s advertisement that has sparked a debate online.
The advertisement has taken the internet by storm, with some users objecting to Sanon’s attire and her appearance alongside a pet dog in the commercial.
Reacting to the criticism on her Instagram Stories, the Cocktail 2 actress hit back at the comments and questioned why a woman’s respect for her culture continues to be judged by what she wears.
“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. We know we can protect each other no less than a brother would have. We pray for each other’s health, happiness & long life,” Sanon wrote.”
She added, “And for us, this prayer and promise extends 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, 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 controversy revolves around an advertisement by Giva, in which Kriti Sanon is seen wearing a bralette-style blouse with a cape and a draped skirt while tying a rakhi to her on-screen brother.
The advertisement drew backlash from several social media users over Sanon’s choice of outfit, with some calling it inappropriate for the festival. However, her fans came to her defence and called out what they described as double standards in the criticism directed towards the actor.
The advertisement, which was released around Raksha Bandhan on July 20, also featured a moment where Sanon is seen tying a rakhi to a pet dog.
While some users appreciated the attempt to present a broader definition of family, several others questioned the creative choices of the campaign.
Amid the ongoing backlash, BJP MP and actor Kangana Ranaut also joined the slew of social media users criticising Sanon’s outfit.