Bollywood actor Kriti Sanon has broken her silence on the ongoing controversy ignited by her latest Raksha Bandhan advertisement for jewellery brand GIVA, which drew flak for her choice of outfit and a scene involving her pet dog. Taking to Instagram Stories on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, Sanon passionately defended her stance, delivering a strong message against the policing of women’s clothing choices and redefining the spirit of the traditional festival.
Kriti Sanon on Rakhi Ad Backlash
In a heartfelt note, Kriti Sanon articulated her perspective on the true meaning of Raksha Bandhan, extending its traditional boundaries. She emphasised that the sanctity of festivals is rooted in sentiment, not in superficial appearances. “The essence of festivals is not in the clothes you wear; it is in the emotions and meaning you hold for the traditions,” Sanon wrote.
Highlighting her personal customs, she shared, “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 also affirmed the inclusion of her canine companion in these celebrations, stating, “And for us, this prayer and promise extends to our dogs too! After all, they are family!”
The actor then directly challenged the persistent societal scrutiny over women’s attire. “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!!” She concluded her powerful statement with the now-viral line, “Culture & Traditions are in her heart, not in her neckline!”
Kriti Sanon Reacts to Backlash Over Raksha Bandhan Ad Outfit
Why Did Kriti Sanon Face Backlash?
The controversy began after the GIVA Raksha Bandhan advertisement, featuring Kriti Sanon, was posted on the brand’s official YouTube channel on August 17, 2026. In the 35-second commercial, Sanon is seen celebrating Raksha Bandhan, tying a rakhi to her brother, and then to her pet dog. She wears an off-white Indo-Western ensemble, including a bralette-style blouse, a cape, and a draped skirt.
Social media users swiftly reacted, with many criticising her outfit for being “too revealing” or “inappropriate” for a traditional festival. The inclusion of a pet dog in the ritual also sparked debate, with some accusing the brand and the actress of disrespecting and mocking Hindu traditions. Comments online ranged from questioning the absence of traditional elements like a puja thali and tilak to outright calls for a boycott of the brand.
The debate escalated further when actor-MP Kangana Ranaut also weighed in, without directly naming Sanon, by sharing her views on Instagram. Ranaut questioned the styling, stating, “From all the options that are available to us today why would you tie your brother a rakhi in your bikini/undergarments? Where are all your styling options? Ha ha the advert looks intentionally creepy!”
Sanon, who was last seen in Homi Adajania’s film Cocktail 2, which released on June 19, 2026, and is currently streaming on Netflix, has now decisively put her thoughts forward, standing her ground amidst the online storm.