By Fatma Younis
Bollywood actor Dia Mirza’s video urging a fireworks-free Diwali has been restored online following a Bombay High Court order, after Mumbai’s civic body removed it under pressure from a ruling party leader.
BJP objection leads to removal
The video was part of a Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) campaign that also featured actors Madhuri Dixit and Nishigandha Wad and cricketer Ajinkya Rahane. BJP Mumbai chief Ameet Satam objected on social media, saying the city did not need lessons on Diwali traditions from Mirza. Within hours, the BMC took down Mirza’s clip while leaving the other celebrities’ videos online. Mumbai mayor Ritu Tawde defended the removal, accusing Mirza of opposing Hindutva and pursuing a selective agenda.
Court orders restoration
On Tuesday, the Bombay High Court expressed “deep pain and displeasure” over the removal and directed the BMC to repost the video. The court said the issue concerned the environment and that every person breathes the same air regardless of religion or caste. It called the decision an “unfortunate” knee-jerk reaction and noted that no politician had posted awareness videos on the matter.
Mirza’s environmental advocacy
Mirza, a UN Environment Programme Goodwill Ambassador for India since 2017, said the video was recorded for public awareness without payment. She has campaigned on air quality for over a decade and noted that she faces attacks whenever she speaks against firecracker use. Mumbai’s air quality index reached 165 on 21 October, placing it among the world’s most polluted cities that day.
Political reactions
Opposition leaders criticized the BJP’s intervention. Former Mumbai mayor Kishori Pednekar questioned whether the civic administration had become subservient to the party. Maharashtra Navnirman Sena corporator Yashwant Killedar said Diwali can be celebrated with a single lamp. Mumbai Congress chief Varsha Gaikwad demanded an unconditional apology and restoration of the video. Meanwhile, court orders this year have banned firecrackers on public roads year-round, and Mumbai Police have prohibited fireworks on public roads until 4 December.
