Urvashi faces fresh controversy over dress modelled on national flag

Bollywood actress and former beauty queen Urvashi Rautela is once again caught in a controversy. This time, she has come under fresh criticism for a dress she wore at the finals of 'Miss Universe India 2026'.

Urvashi was present at the glittering finale as one of the judges. She wore a dress modelled on the colours and symbols of the Indian national flag. The off-shoulder gown, combining saffron, white and green, featured a blue 'Ashoka Chakra' right in the middle, along with a golden fringe. She complemented the glamorous outfit with diamond earrings, silver bangles and designer rings.

After photos and videos of the dress spread on social media, a heated debate erupted with opinions sharply divided. Critics argued that wearing an outfit that exactly replicates the national flag is a grave insult to the country's emblem. However, many of Urvashi's fans and well-wishers have praised her, saying she attempted to represent her country on an international stage through fashion.

Amid the controversy, Urvashi Rautela has also explained her position. She said her dress was fundamentally designed based on the concept of the Indian flag. Urvashi was quoted as saying, "I had said, I am India. So, I truly feel like an India today, and I'm wearing this dress, as you all can see, which is inspired by the national flag".

Notably, this year's edition was highly emotional for Urvashi. She was crowned 'Miss Universe India' in 2015 by Sushmita Sen herself. After a decade, the former world beauty queen recalled her experience of facing the same stage as a member of the selection committee as particularly special.