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In a recently released tourism campaign for Abu Dhabi, actress Deepika Padukone appeared at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque wearing a garment that covered her body and hair, sparking intense debate on social media.
How the Controversy Began
The ad, promoting “Experience Abu Dhabi,” shows Deepika and her husband Ranveer Singh visiting notable landmarks, including the mosque. As she enters the mosque, Deepika is seen wearing what many viewers identified as a hijab. However, observers later clarified that the garment is an abaya, a long robe-like outer covering, rather than a hijab, which typically covers the head and neck only.
This distinction became central to much of the discussion. The mosque has a formal dress code for visitors: clothes must be loose-fitting, reach the ankles, have long sleeves, and women must cover their hair. Transparent, tight clothes or those revealing the body are not permitted.
Nature of the Online Criticism
A segment of social media users reacted strongly, alleging that Deepika’s wearing of the head covering in the ad represented “selective sensitivity.” Some questioned why she would adopt religious or cultural attire for a foreign setting, especially when her earlier public positions on choice and self-expression had been emphasised. The criticism also drew comparisons to how celebrities dress while visiting religious sites in India.
Comments ranged from direct questions “Why cover only abroad?” to broader critiques referencing her past statements about personal freedom. Some accused the move of inconsistency. A few posts directly labelled her appearance as a “hijab” despite the garment being an abaya.
Defenders & Counterpoints
Many fans and supporters responded promptly, defending Deepika’s choice as respectful and appropriate given the cultural and religious norms of the location. They pointed out that following the mosque’s dress rules is standard procedure for visitors, regardless of faith, and that wearing conservative attire does not necessarily signal a religious statement.
Some defenders also noted that Deepika has been respectful at Indian places of worship in the past, with no sudden change in stance. They argued that adhering to local codes when traveling should be seen as cultural courtesy rather than inconsistency.
Understanding the Dress Code at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The mosque’s official visitor guidelines outline expectations for all visitors:
- Clothing should be modest and loose, covering from ankles to wrists.
- Hair should be fully covered for women.
- Transparent, tight, or revealing garments are not allowed.
- Visitors not dressed appropriately may be denied entry or asked to cover up via provided garments.
These rules aim to maintain the sanctity of the space and ensure visitors show respect to local customs and religious practices.
Why the Backlash Gained Traction
Several factors contributed to the intensity of the online reaction:
- Past Statements & Public Persona: Deepika has publicly spoken about choice and individual expression, which led some to see the mosque appearance as a contrast.
- Religious & Cultural Sensitivities: Attire linked to religious identity often triggers strong emotional responses, especially when public figures are involved.
- Social Media Amplification: Quick sharing, reactions, and polarising commentary tend to magnify such incidents.
- Mix-ups in Identification: Many users mistook the abaya for a hijab, leading to misunderstanding and heated responses.
Parting Thoughts-
The recent criticism of Deepika Padukone’s attire in the Abu Dhabi advertisement underscores how appearances and symbolism receive close scrutiny, especially in digital public spaces. While some viewed it as a departure from earlier expressions of choice, others defended it as a culturally sensitive act. The discussion hinges not just on clothing, but on expectations around identity, respect, and the public gaze in a world where every gesture can be amplified.
