BMC removes Dia Mirza Diwali video after BJP objection

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation removed actor Dia Mirza’s anti-pollution Diwali video from its social media after Mumbai BJP chief Ameet Satam objected to her participation in the campaign. Videos featuring other participants, including Madhuri Dixit, Nishigandha Wad and cricketer Ajinkya Rahane, remained available on the civic body’s pages. The BMC campaign encouraged residents to avoid firecrackers and noise pollution during Diwali. Its post accompanying Mirza’s video cited a Bombay High Court directive prohibiting firecrackers on public roads, lanes and footpaths. The campaign featured several public figures in messages promoting a more environmentally mindful celebration. Satam objected in a post on X, writing that people did not need lessons from Mirza on celebrating Diwali and that their traditions were deeply rooted in culture. The video was removed after his objection. The BMC has not publicly explained why Mirza’s clip was taken down while similar campaign videos remained online. Mirza defended the video’s purpose, saying it was recorded for public awareness and encouraged healthier, more mindful celebrations. She described air pollution as a public-health...