Mumbai mayor calls actor Dia Mirza anti-Hindu after BMC removes video
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation removed a pollution-free Diwali campaign video featuring the actor following objections from a BJP leader.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) removed a video of actor Dia Mirza from its pollution-free Diwali campaign on Sunday, according to the Times of India. The removal occurred after Mumbai BJP chief Ameet Satam objected to her inclusion in a social media post, stating that traditions are deeply rooted in culture and people do not need lessons on how to celebrate Diwali.
Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde defended the decision on Monday, alleging that Mirza has always been anti-Hindu and has sided with divisive forces. Tawde also stated that the actor has been blacklisted and noted that Mirza had previously trolled Prime Minister Modi regarding the NEET exam issue.
Mirza responded to the controversy by stating she did not charge any fee for the campaign and questioned why a video recorded in public interest, following Bombay High Court directives, was being criticised. She noted that air pollution is a public health concern and efforts to reduce it should be welcomed.
The campaign, which aimed to encourage environment-friendly celebrations due to rising pollution, also featured Madhuri Dixit, Nishigandha Wad, and cricketer Ajinkya Rahane. While Mirza's clip was removed, the videos of the other celebrities remained on the civic body's social media pages.
Opposition leaders, including Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Kishori Pednekar, questioned if the administration had succumbed to political pressure. BJP minister Nitesh Rane also criticised Mirza, questioning why she did not offer similar advice during other religious festivals such as Eid or Muharram.
Union minister Ramdas Athawale remarked that the matter should not be tied to any specific community, noting that the Constitution grants every religion the right to celebrate its festivals while acknowledging concerns regarding excessive pollution.