The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has removed actor Dia Mirza’s video from its pollution-free Diwali campaign following objections raised by Mumbai BJP chief Ameet Satam. This decision has ignited a political controversy, with BMC Mayor Ritu Tawde labelling Mirza as “anti-Hindu” and alleging that she has been blacklisted.

The campaign aimed to promote an environmentally friendly Diwali in response to rising air pollution levels in Mumbai, in accordance with directives from the Bombay High Court. Mirza had participated in the campaign by urging citizens to refrain from bursting firecrackers, highlighting the importance of public health and environmental concerns.

In her response to the backlash, she questioned the criticism directed at a campaign that was established in the public interest. “Why should anyone be critical of a video that the Honourable Bombay High Court and BMC have made me record in public interest?” she stated.

The BMC had enlisted several celebrities, including Madhuri Dixit, Nishigandha Wad, and cricketer Ajinkya Rahane, to promote the message. However, after Satam publicly objected to Mirza’s involvement via a post on X, the BMC swiftly removed her video while retaining those featuring other celebrities.

Reactions from Mirza and Political Leaders

In a social media post reacting to the removal of her video, Mirza expressed her disappointment, stating, “Koi paise nahi liye hain. Bhalai ka zamana hee nahi raha,” which translates to “I did not charge (BMC) any fee for the Diwali campaign. There is no goodness left in this era.” The BMC’s original post had emphasised that bursting firecrackers in public areas was strictly prohibited, aligning with the Bombay High Court’s directives.

Mayor Tawde defended the decision to remove Mirza’s video, asserting that the actor has consistently aligned herself with divisive forces. She pointed out that Mirza had previously made comments against Prime Minister Modi regarding the NEET examination issue. “She has always been anti-Hindu. We have blacklisted her,” Tawde remarked during a press interaction.

The decision has drawn criticism from opposition leaders, who have questioned whether the BMC acted under political pressure from the BJP. Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Kishori Pednekar accused the civic administration of becoming subservient to BJP interests, suggesting that Satam’s interference in BMC operations was increasing.

Broader Implications and Community Reactions

In light of the controversy, MNS corporator Yashwant Killedar also voiced his discontent with Satam, suggesting that if the BJP leader was fond of firecrackers, he should allow party members to celebrate outside his residence. Killedar emphasised that Diwali could still be observed meaningfully with minimal fireworks, questioning the BJP’s stance on what he termed “hypocritical Hindutva.”

BJP minister Nitesh Rane further critiqued Mirza, questioning her selective advocacy for pollution control during specific festivals. He noted that she had not offered similar advice during Eid or Bakri Eid, implying a bias in her environmental concerns. Rane stated, “People like her are against the Sanatan Hindu religion,” and indicated plans to discuss the matter with Chief Minister Fadnavis.

Union minister Ramdas Athawale commented on the issue, asserting that it should not be linked to any particular community. He underscored the constitutional right of all religions to celebrate their festivals while acknowledging the need to address pollution concerns. Athawale highlighted that the essence of Diwali should not be diminished, even as efforts to reduce pollution are made.

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