A Kolkata-based model, Hemoshree Bhadra, has found herself at the center of controversy after her outfit during a visit to a Durga Puja pandal in the city drew widespread criticism on social media. Bhadra, who claims to be Miss Kolkata 2016, wore a cleavage-baring crop top, which many felt was inappropriate for a religious celebration.
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The model shared photos on Instagram where she is seen posing with two friends at the Durga Puja pandal. One friend wore a long black gown with a thigh-high slit, while the other opted for an orange minidress with knee-length boots. Social media users quickly deemed the trio’s outfits as “indecent” and “vulgar,” with comments pouring in across platforms like X (formerly Twitter). Many felt the clothes were disrespectful to the sanctity of the religious site.
One X user wrote, “Call me regressive, but this is outright stupid.” Another person questioned, “Isn’t it basic common sense to dress accordingly when visiting a temple?” Meanwhile, activist Deepika Bhardwaj also shared the photo, which has since gone viral. Some users wondered if the image had been edited, while others called for stricter dress codes at religious sites to prevent such incidents in the future.
The debate has sparked discussions on cultural sensitivity and appropriate attire at religious events, with opinions sharply divided over the incident.
