Cinema VinesIn a move that has sparked a political debate, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) pulled a video featuring actress Dia Mirza from its Diwali pollution‑awareness campaign after objections from Mumbai BJP chief Ameet Satam. The clip, which urged citizens to avoid firecrackers and highlighted court‑mandated restrictions on public roads, lanes and footpaths, was removed within hours of Satam’s criticism on X.
Satam took issue with Mirza’s participation, posting, “We don’t need lessons on how to celebrate #Diwali from @deespeak. Our traditions are deeply rooted in our culture.” The BMC had previously launched a campaign that included other public figures such as Madhuri Dixit, Nishigandha Wad and cricketer Ajinkya Rahane, but Mirza’s video was the only one taken down.
Mirza has responded that her message was recorded at the BMC’s request and aimed solely at raising awareness about air and noise pollution. She maintains that the clip was a civic initiative and not a political statement.
While the BMC has not provided a formal explanation for why Mirza’s clip was singled out, the incident has highlighted tensions between the city’s environmental efforts and political sensitivities surrounding Diwali celebrations.
The controversy underscores the broader debate over how public figures can influence civic campaigns without becoming embroiled in partisan disputes.
