Deepika Padukone: Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone has found herself at the centre of an online controversy after appearing in an Abu Dhabi tourism advertisement wearing a red hijab. The ad, which also features her husband and actor Ranveer Singh, was recently shared on Deepika’s Instagram account and has drawn both praise and criticism from netizens.
In the promotional video, Deepika and Ranveer are seen exploring Abu Dhabi’s major attractions, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The actress is seen donning a traditional red hijab during the visit, as part of showcasing the cultural and spiritual heritage of the city.
However, her appearance has triggered widespread reactions on social media. While some have appreciated her for respecting local traditions, others have accused her of hypocrisy. Many users reminded her of her 2015 “My Choice” campaign, where she spoke about women’s freedom to choose what they wear. “Where is your choice now?” several users questioned, tagging the actress in comments.
Critics have alleged that Deepika’s portrayal promotes Arab culture while ignoring similar representation of Indian traditions. “You wear a hijab to promote another culture, but never showcase Indian heritage the same way,” one user wrote. Others went as far as calling her a “fake feminist.”
At the same time, several voices have defended the actress, saying she was simply respecting the culture of the place she was visiting. “Wearing a hijab at a mosque is a sign of respect, not submission,” one fan commented.
The controversy comes shortly after reports surfaced that Deepika was dropped from the upcoming film Spirit. The debate around her ad once again highlights the complex intersection of culture, celebrity influence, and online perception in India’s social media landscape.
