Dia Mirza defends BMC anti-pollution Diwali video after BJP's Satam objects

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched a campaign to tackle pollution in Mumbai. Several well-known people, including actor Dia Mirza and cricketer Ajinkya Rahane, were chosen for it. A controversy has now arisen over Mirza's role.

Mumbai BJP president Amit Satam expressed displeasure. He said people do not need Dia Mirza to learn how Diwali should be celebrated. "We do not need to learn from Dia Mirza how to celebrate Diwali. Our traditions are deeply rooted in our culture..." Satam said. He criticised the BMC for including her in a campaign to raise awareness about pollution from firecrackers and noise during Diwali. After Satam's post on Twitter, the civic body removed the post featuring Mirza.

Mirza has now responded to the controversy herself. "The video I made was for a pollution-free Diwali. What is there in it to criticise? The Honourable Bombay High Court has directed the municipal corporation to carry out public awareness on pollution. So I made that video to spread awareness among people. I made the video so that pollution is reduced and people's health stays good. What is there in it that is objectionable or deserves criticism..." she said.

In the video that drew the trolling, Mirza gave her fans a special Diwali message. "Namaskar, the festival of Diwali is almost here. While celebrating, we must take care of both the environment and our health. The noise and air pollution caused by firecrackers harm all of us. I appeal to you to celebrate Diwali with joy, not with noise. Many Diwali greetings to you all!" she says in the video.

Although the BMC has deleted the video, it is still going viral on Twitter. Many people have reposted Mirza's video in support of her. On the other hand, Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde has made a sharp comment on Mirza. The mayor has also called her anti-Hindu.