Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has extended firm support to actor Kriti Sanon following widespread social media backlash over her attire in a recent Raksha Bandhan advertisement. Taking to Instagram, the leader emphasized that a woman’s personal expression and choices should remain free from online policing.
The controversy originated from a commercial for GIVA jewellery, in which Sanon is seen wearing a draped skirt paired with a bralette-style blouse and a cape while performing the traditional Rakhi ritual with her on-screen brother. Critics online quickly targeted the ensemble, deeming it “inappropriate” for a cultural festival.
Sharing Sanon’s initial response on his Instagram Story, Gandhi wrote, “What a woman wears, what she does and where she goes – is her choice. Stop trolling women for exercising their freedom.” He amplified his message by adding the hashtag #SmashThePatriarchy.
Sanon had previously hit back at online trolls who questioned both her modern ethnic outfit and a scene in the campaign depicting a Rakhi being tied to a pet dog. Calling out the rigid standards imposed on female wardrobe choices, the actor noted that the essence of traditions resides in emotional bonds rather than clothing.
“Ethnic fashion has evolved over the years, but still a woman’s respect for her culture is measured with just her clothes!!” Sanon shared. “Culture & Traditions are in her heart, not in her neckline!”
The commercial also sparked reaction from BJP MP and actor Kangana Ranaut, who took a sharply different stance. Without naming Sanon directly, Ranaut criticized the styling choices in the campaign, describing the outfit choice for a family ritual as “intentionally creepy” and asking why modern wardrobe diversity was bypassed for a bikini-style top during a traditional festival.
Despite the contrasting opinions online, the conversation has reignited broader discussions around gender autonomy, evolving fashion, and public scrutiny over traditional celebrations.
