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Kriti Sanon ad controversy sparks debate over festive attire
A controversy has erupted in India following a Raksha Bandhan advertisement for the jewellery brand GIVA, featuring actress Kriti Sanon. The campaign, which showed Sanon tying a rakhi to her brother and a pet dog, drew significant social media backlash due to her attire—an Indo-Western ensemble consisting of an ivory bralette-style blouse, cape, and draped skirt. Critics, including actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut, questioned the appropriateness of the outfit for a traditional festival.
In response to the criticism, GIVA withdrew the advertisement, stating they have the “highest regard and deep respect for Indian culture, traditions and festivals” and intended to avoid hurting sentiments. Kriti Sanon defended her choice, stating that the essence of festivals lies in emotions and traditions rather than clothing, and remarked that “culture and traditions are in her heart, not in her neckline.”
The debate has drawn various public reactions. Madhu Chopra, mother of Priyanka Chopra, commented that while personal choice is valid, there should be “boundaries and limitations” to respect cultural values and aesthetic appropriateness for specific occasions. Additionally, singer Sonu Nigam issued a clarification after a post was falsely attributed to him on social media regarding the controversy, noting that he is not an active user on the X platform.
Entities
GIVA · Kangana Ranaut · Kriti Sanon · Madhu Chopra · Prajakta Shukre · Sonu Nigam
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The jewelry brand GIVA withdrew its Raksha Bandhan advertisement featuring Kriti Sanon. news.abplive.com
- [● 4 SOURCES] An impersonator on X (formerly Twitter) used Sonu Nigam’s name to post opinions on the controversy. www.mangalorean.com · news.abplive.com
- [● 4 SOURCES] Sonu Nigam does not have an account on the X platform. www.mangalorean.com · news.abplive.com
- [● 4 SOURCES] Sonu Nigam denied making comments regarding Kriti Sanon’s Raksha Bandhan advertisement controversy. www.mangalorean.com · news.abplive.com