Post by : Rameen Ariff

Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone recently faced criticism on social media for covering her head in what many called a 'hijab' in a commercial promoting Abu Dhabi tourism. The ad, created by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, features Deepika alongside her husband and frequent co-star Ranveer Singh, both serving as regional brand ambassadors.

In the video, the couple is seen enjoying their visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, laughing over the museum's art, and exploring the architecture of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. During the mosque visit, Deepika wore a red outfit covering her body except her face and hands, while Ranveer sported a black suit.

Soon after the ad went public, Deepika started trending online, with several users criticizing her for wearing what they incorrectly called a 'hijab'. Many pointed out that the garment was actually an abaya, a traditional attire required for women visiting the mosque.

Some social media users reminded others of Deepika’s 2015 Vogue short film, My Choice, which promoted women’s freedom to make their own choices regarding clothing, lifestyle, and social activities.

However, fans defended Deepika, highlighting her respect for cultural and religious norms. They noted that every woman visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is expected to wear long, loose-fitting, ankle-length clothes and a headscarf.

Supporters also emphasized that Deepika and Ranveer have consistently shown respect for religious customs during their visits to temples. For instance, the couple visited the Lord Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh, and the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab, to celebrate their first wedding anniversary in 2019. Deepika wore a traditional red Kanjeevaram saree with gold work at Tirumala, and a maroon salwar-kameez with a head-covering dupatta at the Golden Temple, while Ranveer dressed appropriately for both occasions.

The couple also visited Mumbai’s Siddhivinayak Temple days before the birth of their daughter, Dua, last September.

This is not the first time Deepika has faced criticism over her clothing choices. She was also trolled for her outfit in the Besharam Rang song from Pathaan two years ago.

Deepika Padukone has not yet responded to the recent trolling regarding the Abu Dhabi Tourism ad.

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