Mumbai: Bollywood actor Malaika Arora has found herself at the center of social media criticism after performing a traditional car puja for her newly purchased Mahindra Thar Roxx while wearing heels. Videos from the delivery ceremony have gone viral online, with many users questioning her choice of footwear and outfit during the religious ritual. While several people trolled the actor over the ceremony, many fans also congratulated her on adding the premium SUV to her collection.

Malaika recently took delivery of her new Mahindra Thar Roxx, reportedly worth around ₹28 lakh. The SUV was decorated with flower garlands as part of the traditional handover ceremony. Accompanied by friends and members of her staff, the actor performed a customary puja before taking the vehicle home.

In videos circulating on social media, Malaika can be seen wearing a striped co-ord outfit featuring a deep-neck top, sunglasses and high heels while holding a puja thali. She performed the ritual by applying a tilak on the vehicle and offering prayers. However, the fact that she kept her footwear on during the ceremony quickly became the subject of online debate.

Several social media users criticised the actor, saying that traditional rituals are generally performed barefoot as a mark of respect. Some questioned why she did not remove her heels before offering prayers, while others claimed the ceremony appeared more like a photo opportunity than a religious ritual.

Some users also commented on her outfit, suggesting that traditional attire would have been more appropriate for the occasion. However, others defended Malaika, arguing that personal faith and religious practices vary from person to person and should not be judged based on clothing choices or appearances.

Despite the criticism, the actor also received a large number of congratulatory messages from fans who praised her for purchasing the new SUV. Many admired the Mahindra Thar Roxx and wished her success, choosing to focus on the milestone rather than the controversy surrounding the puja.

This is not the first time Malaika has been subjected to online trolling. Throughout her career, she has frequently been criticised over her fashion choices, fitness routines, personal life and public appearances. The actor has repeatedly stated that she no longer lets online negativity affect her.

In an earlier interview with Hindustan Times, Malaika had spoken about dealing with criticism and public judgment. She said that people have commented on every aspect of her life, from her career and relationships to the clothes she wears. According to the actor, she stopped feeling the need to explain herself to others and has since found greater peace.

"The day I stopped giving explanations to people was the day I felt free. I've been called bold and many other things, but none of it bothers me anymore," she had said.

On the professional front, Malaika was recently seen in the film Thama, where she featured in the special dance number "Poison Baby." Known for her glamorous screen presence and dance performances, she continues to remain active in the entertainment industry while also making regular public appearances at events and brand campaigns.

The latest episode once again highlights how celebrity appearances often become a topic of discussion on social media, with public reactions divided between criticism and support. While the online debate continues, Malaika has not publicly responded to the comments surrounding the puja ceremony