Kangana Ranaut Defends Kriti Sanon Ad Criticism: Festival Is Not Just Aesthetic

Actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut has defended her criticism of Kriti Sanon's Raksha Bandhan advertisement, saying her comments were not directed at the actor personally but were focused on the larger cultural context in which Indian festivals are represented.

Kangana said that festivals should not be viewed merely as aesthetic expressions, arguing that they represent the culture, traditions and civilisation associated with them. Her remarks came amid the controversy surrounding a Raksha Bandhan campaign featuring Kriti Sanon, which later drew criticism on social media and was subsequently withdrawn.

Kangana had earlier objected to Kriti's styling in the advertisement and questioned the choice of outfit for a campaign centred around Raksha Bandhan. She later clarified that, according to her, the controversy involved broader questions about the portrayal of festivals rather than simply an individual's clothing choices.

During a recent interview, Kangana was asked about the criticism surrounding the advertisement as well as the broader debate over women's freedom to choose what they wear. Responding to the discussion, she argued that personal choices and cultural context should not always be viewed separately.

She said that every civilisation has its own aesthetic and cultural expressions and described festivals as an important part of that identity. Referring specifically to Raksha Bandhan, Kangana said the festival carries religious and cultural traditions that give it a distinct meaning.

According to Kangana, the clothing worn in the advertisement was only a small part of the larger criticism. She said many people were concerned about the absence of traditional elements commonly associated with Raksha Bandhan and Indian family celebrations.

She pointed to the lack of a family setting and familiar symbols such as religious rituals, tilak, akshat, incense, lamps and traditional festive food. Kangana argued that these elements form part of the cultural identity associated with the festival.

The controversy began after the Raksha Bandhan campaign featuring Kriti Sanon became widely discussed online. Critics objected to the styling and presentation of the festival, while others defended the actor's right to make personal choices regarding clothing and expression.

The advertisement was later withdrawn following the controversy. The debate also sparked wider discussions about how Indian festivals are portrayed in advertising and whether modern campaigns should maintain traditional cultural and religious symbolism.

Kangana also defended her decision to speak on such issues, saying that her role as a public figure and elected representative had expanded the range of social and cultural matters on which she chooses to express her views.