Nat Geo recently featured Indian actors Alia Bhatt and Priyanka Chopra in its list of 33 changemakers who were honoured for their contributions towards environmental conservation. The publication drew severe criticism on social media for including Alia, Gucci’s Global Brand Ambassador, a high-end fashion brand best known for its leather goods, accessories, and apparel. Check out how the internet reacted:
Nat Geo under fire for naming Alia Bhatt as an environmental changemaker
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Credit: Instagram/aliaabhatt
Along with Priyanka Chopra, Alia Bhatt also got included in Nat Geo’s 33 changemakers for her contributions towards climate consciousness and environmental welfare.
Announcing the same, Nat Geo shared Alia’s cover with the caption, “Ever since she was a child, actress and National Geographic 33 changemaker @aliaabhatt has been passionate about creating tangible change to better our world. Today, she uses her platform to helm several projects—whether that’s supporting environmental filmmaking or amplifying initiatives through @tocoexist. Bhatt’s approaches are intentionally varied, powered by her compassion and curiosity.”
Soon after the post was shared, Nat Geo received criticism for featuring a celebrity who endorses a luxury brand notorious for animal cruelty. Many also questioned Alia’s significant contributions towards environmental and animal welfare.
An Instagram user commented on Nat Geo’s post, “How funny she carries bags made by Gucci from animal leather and Nat Geo suddenly discovered her kindness.”
Another commented, “Not a single actual achievement or ‘change’ or numbers or stats were included in this caption for Alia or for Priyanka Chopra and that really makes me wonder if this is about highlighting real change makers or only the ones who can afford a PR team.”
One more added, “I read about how Alia Bhatt was wearing leather from top to bottom at the Gucci Milan fashion week.”
A user remarked, “Shining a light on conservation by wearing designer calfskin bags and leather dresses. So cute 😍”
A few netizens also criticised the publication for ignoring the efforts of other environment and climate activists who have dedicated their lives to the cause.
A user said, “So many women in india who have dedicated their lives to conserving forests, seeds and animals. And @natgeoindia chooses the woman who wears and endorses leather. So much for Natgeo being unaffected by power👏👏👏👏”
Another wrote, “@natgeo read the comment section and get ideas on who are real conservationists and should be featured here! Bollywood or Hollywood celebs shouldn’t be featured for such issues.”
Speaking to Nat Geo, Alia Bhatt said she uses her platform for animal and environmental welfare through films, books and campaigns.
She said, “I was in this position where I started to question whether my voice had quality. I said, OK, let me go to something that I feel very passionate about. And that is animals.”
Alia was appointed as the Global Brand Ambassador for Gucci in May 2023. She is the first Indian to represent the luxury fashion house.
Social and lead images credits: Instagram/aliaabhatt
