Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor Khan, often praised for her fashion choices and glamorous appearances, found herself at the center of controversy after pictures from a recent collaboration with Pakistani designer Faraz Manan went viral on social media. The timing of the release of these images—closely following the tragic attack in Pahalgam—sparked a wave of criticism from a section of the public, who labeled the photoshoot as insensitive and poorly timed.
The images, which showcased Kareena in elegant couture designed by Manan, were part of a high-profile fashion campaign. While the collaboration itself was not new—Kareena has previously worked with the designer and has publicly praised his craftsmanship—this particular unveiling drew strong reactions due to the emotionally charged atmosphere in India following the Pahalgam incident, where brave security personnel lost their lives in a terrorist attack.
Social media platforms quickly lit up with critical comments, with some users expressing their disappointment in harsh terms. Phrases like “Laanat hai” (a strong expression of disapproval in Urdu and Hindi) trended among angry netizens who felt the timing of the campaign was insensitive to national sentiment. Many questioned the decision to associate with a Pakistani creative figure at such a politically and emotionally delicate time.
Supporters of Kareena, however, pointed out that the campaign may have been planned and shot well in advance, and likely had no direct connection to current events. They urged for a more balanced perspective and reminded critics that art and fashion often transcend borders. Nonetheless, the overall sentiment across various platforms showed that many were not ready to separate the artistic collaboration from the political context.
The incident has once again reignited the recurring debate around cross-border artistic ties and the responsibility of celebrities to be mindful of national sentiment, especially in times of grief or conflict. While Kareena herself has not issued a statement on the matter as of now, the growing criticism highlights the intense scrutiny that public figures face, particularly in an age where social media reactions are swift and often unforgiving.
As emotions continue to run high, it remains to be seen whether Kareena or her team will address the issue publicly or allow the storm to pass. For now, the episode serves as yet another reminder of the fragile intersection between celebrity, patriotism, and public perception.
