Raghu Ram questions morality behind policing Kriti Sanon's outfit in Rakhi ad: ‘What special privilege do men have?’

Raghu Ram slammed those who speak about protecting women while policing their outfits, calling it a criminal mindset. See his video.

In August, an advertisement featuring Kriti Sanon was released ahead of Raksha Bandhan. Instead of the jewellery the advertisement was aiming to sell, all focus shifted on the outfit the actor wore while tying the rakhi. Since then, the ad has been pulled, and Kriti has defended it. Raghu Ram now added to the chatter, wondering in a new video what special privilege men have to police women’s outfits.

Raghu Ram questioned what was so offensive about Kriti Sanon's outfit in the ad.

Raghu Ram questions policing Kriti Sanon’s outfit

In a video posted on his Instagram on Tuesday, Raghu said, “Kriti Sanon's Rakhi ad controversy has come and gone, and perhaps it has passed, or will pass. Something new will come along that will hurt us again. But I have two questions I'd like to discuss with you in the comments.”

He stated that he wondered what was so controversial about it, “At first, I was like, what’s so controversial. A sister is tying a rakhi to her brother. The brother doesn’t have a problem; why do you? Then I wondered if I was missing something that you could explain to me. Because I want to understand.”

Urging people to engage with him in the comments, he said, “I have two questions. Why is there an issue with women wearing fewer clothes, and what exactly is the problem? Don't say it's because women get raped or molested afterwards. Don't say that. That is a vile, unacceptable thought and a criminal mindset.”

He further added, “A politician even tried to justify rape by saying that if you leave a box of sweets open, flies will gather. My second question is, what special privilege do men have that they think they can dictate what women should wear?”

Many in Raghu’s comments seemed to agree with him, leaving comments such as, “This is exactly why we need to SMASH the patriarchy sir. I don’t understand why men feel entitled to having a say in what women wear.” Others, however, argued as to why a bralette was ‘inappropriate’ to wear on Raksha Bandhan.

What is the Kriti Sanon ad controversy?

Jewellery brand GIVA released a Raksha Bandhan ad featuring Kriti, in which she’s seen celebrating the festival with her brother and pet dog. She wore a bralette-style blouse, a cape, and a draped skirt. Social media was soon up in arms, calling out the brand and the actor for wearing an outfit they deemed inappropriate. Kangana Ranaut also criticised Kriti’s choice of attire, adding to the cacophony. Kriti later responded to the backlash, defending the advert and her choice of clothing. The jewellery brand soon pulled down the ad amid criticism.