Actor Urvashi Rautela has fired back at the Instagram account Diet Sabya after they accused her of obstructing a hotel staircase during a photoshoot at the Cannes Film Festival. Urvashi clarified that her team had obtained official permission to shoot at that location and dismissed Diet Sabya as a “paid troll.”
Recently, Urvashi faced criticism online following a video that showed her standing on a hotel stairway in a golden gown, posing for pictures while hotel guests appeared to be waiting behind her. The clip sparked backlash, with viewers accusing her of ignoring others’ convenience.
In response, Urvashi took to Instagram on Tuesday to address the allegations made by Diet Sabya. She wrote a statement directed to her “global fans, supporters, the Cannes Festival community, and champions of truth,” in which she condemned the Instagram page for spreading “cowardly lies.” She insisted that her photoshoot was conducted with full authorization, like many others, and was fully compliant with Cannes Film Festival regulations—a prestigious event she holds in high regard.
Urvashi went on to call Diet Sabya a “cheap imitation of Diet Prada,” criticizing the page for lacking originality and for attacking “hardworking outsiders who dare to shine.” She accused them of spreading unfounded stories aimed at tarnishing those who bring pride to India on the global stage.
She confirmed that she had blocked and reported Diet Sabya and urged her followers to reject their “envious slander.” Urvashi emphasized that neither Diet Sabya nor their “petty lies” could diminish her reputation, which she described as built through relentless dedication and international success. She ended her statement with a strong message: “No matter how hard you troll me, we will never pay you like others #paidtrolls.”
The controversy began when Diet Sabya shared the video on May 23, showing Urvashi posing on a hotel stairway while guests waited behind her. Their caption read, “Not the first lady blocking everyone’s way for her photo op.” Social media users expressed disappointment, criticizing her behavior as lacking basic courtesy, especially since she was representing India on an international platform.
For the occasion, Urvashi wore a dazzling cape-style gown by Joli Poli and carried a Judith Leiber statement bag. Though attending Cannes in a personal capacity, she took part in multiple screenings during the festival.
