Actor and politician Kangana Ranaut has weighed in on the social media controversy surrounding Kriti Sanon's latest Raksha Bandhan advertisement, taking a pointed swipe at the actor over the campaign's presentation.
The advertisement has attracted criticism from sections of social media, particularly over Kriti's outfit and a sequence in which a rakhi is shown being tied to a dog.
Reacting to the debate, Kangana questioned the decision to pair a traditional festival such as Raksha Bandhan with what she considered revealing styling. In an Instagram Story, she argued that women today have access to a wide range of fashion choices and suggested that a more conventional festive look could have been chosen for the occasion.
Kangana also described the advertisement as deliberately uncomfortable in its execution, making it clear that she did not approve of the creative direction.
WHAT IS IN KRITI SANON'S RAKSHA BANDHAN AD?
The campaign features Kriti celebrating Raksha Bandhan while dressed in an ivory bralette-inspired blouse, a cape-style layer and a draped skirt.
The advertisement appears to take a modern, fashion-forward approach to the festival. However, some viewers questioned whether the styling was suited to a campaign centred on a traditionally celebrated family occasion.
Another moment that became a talking point online shows a rakhi being tied to a dog, which also drew criticism from some social media users.
The controversy subsequently brought Kangana's comments into the discussion, with the actor taking issue with both the wardrobe choice and the overall treatment of the festive theme.
KRITI SANON'S RECENT PROJECTS
Kriti was most recently seen in Homi Adajania's Cocktail 2, alongside Shahid Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna. The actor also made a cameo appearance in Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, featuring Varun Dhawan.
Meanwhile, Kangana's latest theatrical appearance was in Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata, directed by Manoj Tapadia.
She is also set to reunite with Tanu Weds Manu co-star R Madhavan for an upcoming pan-India psychological thriller. The project marks another collaboration between Kangana and director AL Vijay.
The exchange over Kriti's advertisement has meanwhile added another layer to the ongoing online discussion around how traditional Indian festivals are represented in contemporary advertising.