Focus on Acting, Not Religion: Ramdas Athawale Slams Dia Mirza’s Diwali Campaign
Union Minister Ramdas Athawale criticises actress Dia Mirza for her pollution-free Diwali campaign, urging her to focus on acting over religion.
Union Minister Ramdas Athawale has sparked a fresh debate by criticising Bollywood actress Dia Mirza for her involvement in a campaign promoting a pollution-free Diwali. Athawale asserted that public figures should avoid commenting on religious traditions and suggested that the actress should stick to her professional craft rather than venturing into politically sensitive cultural territories.
Constitutional Rights and Traditions
Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Athawale emphasized that the right to celebrate festivals is protected under the Indian Constitution. He referenced the legacy of Babasaheb Ambedkar to highlight that every religion possesses the freedom to observe its traditions.
The Minister pointed out that bursting firecrackers is a long-standing tradition during Diwali. He further noted the spirit of communal harmony in India, mentioning how people from various communities participate in celebrations during Eid and Ramzan. Regarding Mirza's social media activity, Athawale stated, "I don't think her tweet was appropriate. She should not have got involved in politics. She should focus on her acting, and it is not right to post such tweets against any religion."
The BMC Campaign Controversy
The friction began when the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) launched a public awareness drive to encourage eco-friendly Diwali celebrations, following a directive from the Bombay High Court regarding Mumbai's deteriorating air quality. The campaign featured video messages from several prominent personalities, including Dia Mirza, Madhuri Dixit, Nishigandha Wad, and cricketer Ajinkya Rahane.
However, the initiative faced immediate backlash from political quarters. Mumbai BJP chief Ameet Satam voiced his objection on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the city does not need lessons from Mirza on how to celebrate Diwali, as the traditions are deeply rooted in Indian culture.
Following these objections, the BMC took the step of removing Mirza's video from its social media platforms, although the videos of other celebrities remained intact.
Dia Mirza’s Defense
Responding to the onslaught of criticism, Dia Mirza questioned why her actions were being targeted, given that the video was recorded in the public interest. She highlighted that the campaign was a collaboration with the BMC and was aligned with the Bombay High Court's concerns.
Mirza argued that air pollution is a critical public health issue and that any effort to reduce it should be welcomed by all, regardless of political or religious affiliations.
Political Escalation and Ban
The controversy deepened as Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde announced that the actress would be barred from future BMC programs and official platforms. Tawde linked this decision to Mirza's perceived opposition to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Hindutva.
"We will not include her in any program, certainly not on the official BMC portal... our position is clear: we will not allow anyone who opposes Hindutva to appear on the official BMC portal," Tawde stated.
Adding to the criticism, Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane questioned the selectivity of Mirza's environmental concerns. He alleged that while she spoke up about Diwali and promoted an environment-friendly Holi, she remained silent during other religious occasions such as Eid, Muharram, or Bakri Eid. Rane accused the actress of being against the Sanatan Hindu religion and indicated that he would discuss the matter with the Chief Minister to prevent similar occurrences in the future.