Mumbai, November 2: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has removed a Diwali awareness video featuring Bollywood actor Dia Mirza from its social media platforms following objections from Mumbai BJP president Ameet Satam, triggering a controversy over the civic body’s pollution-awareness campaign.
The video, shared through the BMC’s official X handle, @mybmc, featured Dia Mirza appealing to citizens to avoid bursting firecrackers and reduce air and noise pollution during Diwali.
The controversy erupted after Ameet Satam objected to the actor’s inclusion in the campaign. In a post on X tagging the BMC, Satam wrote, “We don’t need lessons on how to celebrate #Diwali from @deespeak. Our traditions are deeply rooted in our culture.”
Following his objection, the civic administration removed Dia Mirza’s video from its social media platforms within hours. However, the BMC has not issued any official clarification explaining the decision.
Notably, videos featuring other celebrities, including Madhuri Dixit and Nishigandha Wad, as well as cricketer Ajinkya Rahane, reportedly continue to remain on the civic body’s social media pages.
The campaign was launched to encourage environmentally responsible Diwali celebrations and promote awareness about pollution. The BMC’s appeal was also linked to Bombay High Court directions concerning the use of firecrackers.
The selective removal of Dia Mirza’s video has sparked questions over the civic body’s decision, particularly as other campaign videos carrying similar messages remain available online.
