Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone has once again found herself in the spotlight — this time not for a movie, but for her outfit. A new Abu Dhabi tourism advertisement featuring Deepika has sparked a heated debate online, with several social media users trolling her for allegedly wearing a “hijab.” But here’s the twist — she wasn’t wearing a hijab at all.

The Viral Ad and the Confusion

In the video, Deepika Padukone is seen walking through the stunning streets of Abu Dhabi — its golden dunes, lavish architecture, and serene mosques forming a breathtaking backdrop. She wears a white flowy outfit paired with a matching scarf gracefully draped around her head, completing a modest yet elegant look.

However, some viewers quickly jumped to conclusions. Screenshots from the ad circulated on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, where users accused her of “promoting Islamic attire” and called it a “hijab look.” Within hours, “Deepika Padukone hijab” started trending.

But fashion experts and fans who watched the full video pointed out that it’s not a hijab — it’s simply a headscarf, a common accessory in the region used to respect local culture and dress modestly in religious spaces.

Respect or Religion? The Debate

The controversy quickly turned into a cultural debate. Some critics argued that Deepika, being a global star, should avoid wearing “religious symbols” in ads. Others, however, applauded her for showing respect to the local traditions of the UAE.

Supporters noted that covering one’s head in the Middle East is not necessarily a religious statement. It’s a sign of cultural sensitivity and modest fashion, especially in public spaces and tourism campaigns where cultural respect is important.

One user commented,

“She’s representing a global brand in a Muslim country. Covering her head is respect, not religion.”

Another wrote,

“Only Indians can find controversy in a simple scarf. Deepika looks elegant and graceful.”

Deepika’s Graceful Style

Known for her refined fashion sense, Deepika Padukone has always blended traditional and modern styles seamlessly. Her choice of attire in this ad — a simple, neutral-toned outfit with minimal makeup — perfectly suited the theme of serenity and luxury that the Abu Dhabi Tourism campaign was aiming for.

This is not the first time Deepika’s fashion has sparked online discussion. From her Louis Vuitton Cannes red carpet gown to her “Pathaan” bikini scene, every outfit she wears seems to make headlines — for better or worse. Yet, she continues to handle criticism with dignity and never responds directly to trolls.

Why the Internet Overreacted

So why did this turn into such a big issue? The answer lies in social media polarization. Platforms like X and Instagram thrive on outrage. A single photo taken out of context can easily spiral into a nationwide debate.

Some users deliberately spread misinformation by labeling her scarf as a “hijab,” ignoring the cultural context. Many others simply followed the trend without watching the full ad. The result — a storm of confusion and judgment.

Fashion experts also noted that modest fashion — including scarves, long dresses, and covered shoulders — is a growing global trend, embraced by celebrities worldwide, irrespective of religion.

Abu Dhabi Tourism’s Intent

The tourism ad itself focuses on beauty, peace, and luxury — with Deepika exploring the city’s modern marvels, desert landscapes, and cultural heritage. The campaign’s goal was to portray Abu Dhabi as a place where tradition meets modernity, and Deepika’s styling was part of that message.

The tourism board has not issued any official statement on the controversy, likely recognizing that the misunderstanding doesn’t reflect the spirit of the campaign.

Celebrities and Cultural Sensitivity

Deepika’s choice of attire reflects a long-standing practice among global ambassadors. From Priyanka Chopra wearing a headscarf at a Jordan orphanage visit to Gigi Hadid donning modest outfits in Middle Eastern shoots — fashion often adapts to respect local cultures.

Experts say such decisions are professional and respectful, not political or religious. As one stylist commented:

“If you’re representing a global destination, dressing according to its culture shows understanding and respect — not submission.”

Trolling and Double Standards

It’s ironic that while many international models are praised for wearing modest fashion, Indian actresses often face double standards. When a foreign celebrity like Bella Hadid wears a headscarf, she’s called “culturally inspired,” but when Deepika does it, she’s “promoting Islam” — highlighting the hypocrisy of online audiences.

Social media trolling has unfortunately become routine for celebrities. Deepika, who has previously faced hate campaigns for movies like Padmaavat and Pathaan, seems unfazed. Her silence, grace, and professionalism often speak louder than the noise.

The Real Message

The real message behind the Abu Dhabi ad is not about religion or politics — it’s about respect, culture, and beauty. Deepika embodies an elegant traveler discovering the heart of the UAE, showing how one can appreciate another culture without losing one’s identity.

The scarf was a stylistic choice, blending fashion with cultural harmony. It’s unfortunate that a symbol of elegance was misread as a symbol of controversy.

Fans Defend Deepika

Amid the trolling, many fans rushed to support her, calling out the unnecessary outrage.

“People need to stop turning everything into a religion debate,” one fan wrote.
“She’s in the Middle East. Of course, she’ll dress modestly. Grow up!” said another.

The overwhelming response from her global fanbase celebrated her poise and representation of Indian cinema on an international platform.