Raipur, Aug. 27 -- Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati Maharaj, on Thursday, criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi over their views on religion, culture and the Manusmriti, saying both leaders needed to develop a better understanding of India's religious and social traditions.

His remark on Gandhi came amid a controversy over Bollywood actor Kriti Sanon's outfit in a Raksha Bandhan advertisement for a jewellery brand. Sanon appeared in the advertisement wearing an ivory lehenga with a deep-neck blouse and a cape. While many appreciated her look, she also faced criticism online from some users who questioned the outfit on the grounds of Indian culture and traditions.

Reacting to the backla...