Urvashi Rautela is once again making headlines, but this time it is not just because of her glamorous appearance. The actress and former beauty queen recently walked the ramp at the Miss Universe India 2026 event in Jaipur, wearing a striking tricolour gown inspired by the Indian national flag. While the outfit took months to create, it has now sparked a debate on social media, with some people questioning whether using the colours and elements of the national flag in a fashion outfit is appropriate.
Urvashi reportedly revealed that the gown took around three months to create and was specially designed for the event. The outfit featured the three colours associated with the Indian tricolour—saffron, white and green—and also incorporated an Ashoka Chakra-inspired design. The actress carried the look confidently during her walk, making it one of the most talked-about outfits from the event.
However, instead of receiving only praise, Urvashi faced criticism from some social media users. A section of people accused her of disrespecting Indian culture and the national flag by using the tricolour as part of a glamorous gown. The fact that the outfit was backless and was worn during a ramp walk further fuelled the controversy.
The discussion has now brought attention to the rules and sentiments surrounding the use of the Indian national flag. Many people believe that the Tricolour should be treated with dignity and should not be used casually as a fashion accessory. Others, however, feel that using the colours of the national flag as inspiration for an outfit can be a way of expressing patriotism, provided the flag itself is not being misused or disrespected.
The intention behind Urvashi’s outfit also remains an important part of the discussion. If the gown was created as a tribute to India and its national identity, some fans believe that the look should be viewed from that perspective rather than simply being criticised for its design.
At the same time, questions about whether an outfit incorporating the Tricolour is appropriate for a beauty pageant are understandable. The national flag carries deep emotional and historical significance for Indians, so even a fashion interpretation can quickly become controversial when people feel that its dignity may have been compromised.
Urvashi’s appearance has therefore started a larger conversation about fashion, patriotism, culture and respect for national symbols. While some people are appreciating the creativity and effort behind the three-month-long gown, others believe that the Tricolour should remain separate from fashion and entertainment.
The actress has yet to face an official finding of disrespect simply because of the gown, and the online criticism largely reflects differing public opinions about the design.
What do you think? Was Urvashi Rautela’s Tricolour-inspired gown a beautiful way to celebrate India, or was it inappropriate to use the national colours and Ashoka Chakra-inspired design in a glamorous ramp outfit?
