Actor Kriti Sanon defended her choice of attire in a Raksha Bandhan advertisement after facing criticism for wearing a bikini [1].
The controversy highlights a recurring tension in India between traditional cultural expectations and modern expressions of personal autonomy. As the festival celebrates the bond between siblings, the debate over appropriate clothing has sparked a wider conversation on gender roles and social policing.
Sanon addressed the backlash on social media, where the advertisement had been posted [4, 5]. She questioned the societal tendency to regulate women's clothing and defended her interpretation of cultural practice. "When will we stop telling women what to wear?" Sanon said [5].
The actor further argued that the essence of the holiday is not tied to specific garments. "Tradition is in the heart, not in the neckline," Sanon said [2].
The advertisement drew specific criticism from BJP MP Kangana Ranaut and other social media users [1]. Some critics viewed the bikini outfit as inappropriate for the traditional nature of the Raksha Bandhan festival [1].
Political figures also weighed in on the dispute. Rahul Gandhi said that what a woman wears, what she does, and where she goes is her choice [3].
Reports indicate the advertisement was eventually pulled down following the public outcry [4]. Sanon continues to maintain that her clothing choice was a matter of personal preference and did not diminish the spiritual or emotional value of the tradition [1, 2].
“"Tradition is in the heart, not in the neckline."”
This incident reflects the ongoing cultural friction in India as public figures challenge traditional norms. By framing the debate around personal choice and the internal nature of faith, Sanon is aligning with a broader movement seeking to decouple religious or cultural observance from strict dress codes.
