Deepika Padukone Sparks Debate Wearing Hijab in Abu Dhabi Ad

Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone has become the center of an online debate following her appearance in a tourism campaign for Abu Dhabi, in which she is seen wearing a hijab while walking through the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

The ad features Deepika alongside her husband and fellow actor Ranveer Singh. Both stars serve as brand ambassadors for Experience Abu Dhabi, the destination brand of the Department of Culture and Tourism–Abu Dhabi.

Deepika, known for her global appeal and high-profile projects, is no stranger to social media controversies. She previously faced criticism for attending Delhi’s Jawaharlal Nehru University during the anti-CAA protests and for her bold appearance in the song “Besharam Rang” from the film Pathaan.

The latest ad has sparked discussion online, with netizens debating cultural representation, respect for religious attire, and celebrity endorsements in international campaigns. Supporters argue that the hijab was worn respectfully in line with the mosque’s cultural norms, while critics questioned the choice of celebrity endorsements in sensitive religious spaces.