Mon, 2 Nov, 2026, 12:04 pm
Reported by Hindustan Times
Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde on Monday defended the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)'s decision to take down a video featuring actor Dia Mirza on celebrating pollution-free Diwali. The mayor insisted that she be consulted before celebrities are roped in for future civic campaigns.
Hitting out at the actor, Tawde said Hindus are well aware of how to celebrate Diwali and don't need Mirza to “teach them”. “Regarding how Hindus should celebrate Diwali—we certainly do not need Dia Mirza to teach us. We know how to celebrate our own Diwali. You should focus on your selective agenda,” Tawde said.
She accused the actor of opposing the government's efforts to address the environmental crisis. “She has even opposed statements made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Consistently, her opposition appears to be directed against Hindutva,” Tawde said.
Was unaware of Mirza's association with campaign: MayorRitu Tawde said she was unaware that Mirza had been associated with the campaign and would take up the matter with the civic administration. “Those who oppose Hindutva, we will oppose them. Henceforth, the BMC should not make any public statement without my approval,” she said.
She added that while Mirza was free to express her views on her personal social media accounts, any content put out through the BMC’s official handles should have the ruling party’s approval.
