Kriti Sanon has opened up about the backlash over her Raksha Bandhan ad, admitting she never saw it coming that her outfit would end up being debated on prime-time TV. The actor spoke about the controversy on Kareena Kapoor Khan's What Women Want Season 6, recalling just how much attention her 'choli' ended up getting.
Kriti said, "I couldn't believe… when my choli had become like a 6 people panel discussion on prime-time news." To which Kareena replied, "I know."
Towards the end of the clip, Kriti was asked the question the show is named after, what do women really want. Her answer was simple: "To not be judged, and people should mind their business."
The new season will also feature several other stars, including Ali Fazal, Neha Kakkar, Maheep Kapoor, Bhavna Pandey, Mickey Contractor and Mira Rajput, among others.
ALSO READ - Kriti Sanon’s Raksha Bandhan Ad Sparks Controversy: What Happened?
What Was Kriti Sanon's Rakhi Ad Controversy?
The controversy started after jewellery brand GIVA released a Raksha Bandhan ad featuring Kriti Sanon. In the ad, she's seen celebrating the festival in an off-white bralette-style blouse, paired with a cape and a draped skirt.
While the ad was meant to give the traditional festival a modern touch, it didn't go down well with everyone. Several users questioned if the outfit suited the occasion, while others pointed out the missing traditional elements and took issue with her pet being featured in the ad.
The backlash grew strong enough that the ad was eventually taken down.
ALSO READ - Kriti Sanon's Raksha Bandhan Commercial Pulled Down Following Backlash Over Festive Attire
Kriti Sanon Reacted To The Backlash
Kriti later responded to the criticism on Instagram, saying that festivals are really about the emotions and traditions behind them, not about what a person chooses to wear. "The essence of festivals is not in the clothes you wear, it is in the emotions and meaning you hold for the traditions. Rakshabandhan is a bond of protection."
She added, "My sister and I tie rakhi to each other. We know we can protect each other no less than a brother would have. We pray for each other’s health, happiness & long life. And for us, this prayer and promise extends to our dogs too! After all, they are family!"
GIVA also put out a statement addressing the ad's removal, saying they stood by Kriti. The brand's founder clarified that the message behind the campaign hadn't changed, and that the ad was taken down mainly to protect the safety of the brand's employees and stores.
FAQ
1. Why was Kriti Sanon’s Raksha Bandhan ad criticised?
Kriti Sanon’s outfit in the GIVA Raksha Bandhan ad drew criticism from some social media users, who felt it was inappropriate for the traditional festival.
2. What did Kriti Sanon say about the controversy?
Kriti said she was surprised that her 'choli' became the subject of a six-person panel discussion on prime-time news. She also questioned why women are judged by their clothes.
3. Why was the GIVA Raksha Bandhan ad removed?
GIVA pulled down the ad after the controversy intensified. The jewellery brand later said the decision was taken because of safety concerns around some of its stores and teams.