Urvashi Rautela Faces Intense Backlash Over Tricolour Gown at Miss Universe India 2026

Actor and former beauty queen Urvashi Rautela has sparked public outrage on social media following her appearance at the Miss Universe India 2026 finale in Jaipur, where she wore attire inspired by the Indian national flag. Serving as a jury member for the pageantry event, Rautela’s bold fashion choice was met with significant backlash from netizens who accused her of violating India's flag protocol. Kaziah Liz Mejo From Kerala Crowned Miss Universe India 2026; All About Her.

Urvashi Rautela Wears Tricolour Saree at Miss Universe India 2026

Rautela made a high-profile entry at the pageant finale wearing a dramatic gown influenced by the Indian tricolour and the Ashoka Chakra. Addressing reporters at the event, the former Miss Universe India winner stated, "I had said, 'I am India.' So, I truly feel like India today, and I'm wearing this dress, as you all can see, which is inspired by the national flag."

During the event, Rautela also reflected on her pageantry journey and expressed her gratitude toward Sushmita Sen, who served on this year's selection committee and had originally crowned Rautela in 2015, referring to Sen as her "first guru."

Urvashi Rautela's Instagram Story 

Detailed Look at Urvashi Rautela's Tricolour Outfit

The strapless, body-fitting ensemble incorporated sweeping panels representing the saffron, white, and green shades of the national flag, culminating in a dramatic floor-length train.

Urvashi Rautela at Miss Universe India 2026

 

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At the centre of the gown, a blue circular emblem modelled after the Ashoka Chakra was prominently displayed. The outfit was further accented with silver crystal and pearl-like fringe extending across her shoulder, accompanied by high-glam makeup, statement diamond earrings, and a sleek high ponytail.

Netizens Call Out Urvashi Rautela for Violating Flag Code

Despite the actress framing the look as a patriotic gesture, social media users quickly criticised the outfit. Many pointed out that incorporating the colours and symbols of the national flag into lower-body attire and letting parts of it trail along the floor violates guidelines outlined under the Flag Code of India.

The outfit prompted a wave of sharp criticism across platforms like X and Instagram. Several users questioned the legality of the attire, asking, "Isn't draping of Tiranga not allowed?" while another commented, "No no this is wrong." Others called for accountability, pointing out that national symbols should not be compromised for fashion statements. Miss Universe Organization and 2025 Pageant Winner Fatima Bosch Release Statement Amidst Arrest Warrant Claim by Thailand’s Nawat Itsaragrisil (See Posts).

Urvashi Rautela's Tricolour Outfit Leaves Netizens Furious 

As of now, Rautela and her styling team have not issued an official response regarding the online criticism.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 24, 2026 03:59 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).