Kriti Sanon addresses Raksha Bandhan ad backlash, hits back at Kangana Ranaut’s ‘bikini’ remark: ‘Culture and traditions are in her heart, not in her neckline!’
Published: August 25, 2026, 3:03 PM IST
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Kriti Sanon’s Raksha Bandhan ad
Kriti Sanon has addressed the criticism surrounding her recent Raksha Bandhan advertisement after the GIVA campaign sparked a debate online over her outfit and its portrayal of the festivalResponding to the backlash, Sanon said that festivals should be about emotions, traditions and the relationships they celebrate rather than clothing. In a social media post, Kriti explained why the advertisement’s message was important to herShe also defended the decision to include her pet dog in the Raksha Bandhan celebrations, pointing out that pets are an important part of the family.
“The essence of festivals is not in the clothes you wear; it is in the emotions and meaning you hold for the traditionsRakshabandhan is a bond of protectionMy sister and I tie rakhi to each otherWe know we can protect each other no less than a brother would have,” she wrote.
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‘Why would you wear bikini?’: Kangana Ranaut questions Kriti Sanon’s Raksha Bandhan advertisement
Kriti further said that she and her sister pray for each other’s health, happiness and long lifeShe explained that the same sentiment also extends to their pets. “And for us, this prayer and promise extends to our dogs too! Afterall, they are family!” the actor wrote.
“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!”
Kriti Sanon breaks silence on Raksha Bandhan ad
The advertisement had earlier faced criticism from a section of social media users, who questioned Kriti’s outfit and accused the campaign of not respecting the traditional spirit of Raksha BandhanThe ad also drew attention for showing Kriti tying a Rakhi to a dog.
Kriti’s response comes amid the ongoing debate over the campaign and its interpretation of the festival.
