Kriti Sanon has chosen humour over another explanation as the debate around her Raksha Bandhan advertisement continues.

On the festival, the actor shared a picture with her sister Nupur Sanon and appeared to take a pointed dig at the people who had been discussing what she should or should not wear.

Rather than sharing a full picture of their festive looks, Kriti posted a close-up of her and Nupur’s hands. The sisters can be seen holding hands, with rakhis tied around their wrists.

Her caption was clearly aimed at the ongoing outfit debate. Kriti wrote, “While the Rakhi fashion committee is still in session We’re focusing on what really matters. Happy Rakhi to all.”

The post quickly drew supportive comments from fans, with many praising the actor for responding to the controversy without turning the occasion into another lengthy argument. Comments included, “More power to you girls!!!”, “Sisters are blessing”, “THE BEST REPLY” and “And that is how you laugh at the trolls.”

How the controversy began

The controversy started with a Raksha Bandhan campaign for jewellery brand GIVA. Kriti appeared in the advertisement in an off-white outfit featuring a bralette-style blouse, cape and draped skirt. While some viewers liked the styling, others questioned whether the look was appropriate for an advertisement centred on a traditional festival. The criticism soon became a larger debate about clothing, culture and how women are expected to dress during religious and family occasions.

Also Read: ‘Why’d you tie a Rakhi in bikini?’ Kangana Ranaut reacts to Kriti’s controversial Raksha Bandhan ad 

Actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut also criticised the campaign, questioning why someone would wear what she described as a bikini or undergarments while tying a Rakhi. 

Kriti subsequently responded to the criticism on Instagram Stories. She argued that festivals should be understood through the emotions and traditions attached to them rather than through a woman's clothes.

She also wrote, “Imagine being this bothered by what another woman chooses to wear. Respectfully, evolve. PS: I'm the one she tied the rakhi to, and if I don't have a problem with it, why do you?””

Also Read: 'Culture and traditions not in neckline': Kriti Sanon claps back at Kangana Ranaut's 'bikini' jibe 

Kriti went on to question why women’s clothing continues to be treated as a measure of their cultural values, adding, “Culture and traditions are in her heart, not in her neckline!”

GIVA pulls down the advertisement

The controversy did not end with the exchange on social media.

Read more: After Kriti Sanon’s response, brand withdraws Raksha Bandhan ad amid controversy 

GIVA later withdrew the Raksha Bandhan advertisement from its platforms following the backlash.