Indian actor and environmental advocate Dia Mirza has expressed concern over Mumbai’s worsening air pollution after a video urging residents to avoid firecrackers during Diwali was removed from the city’s civic body’s social media accounts.
In an interview, Mirza questioned the criticism directed at the public awareness campaign, saying efforts to reduce air pollution should be welcomed as a matter of public health.
“Why would anyone be critical of a video the Honourable Bombay High Court and the BMC have made me record in public interest? Air pollution is an area of concern, and all efforts to reduce pollution should be welcomed because it’s a matter of public health,” she said.
The video was removed by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) after BJP Mumbai chief Ameet Satam objected to its content.
What was in Dia Mirza’s video?
The clip featured Mirza appealing to Mumbai residents to avoid bursting firecrackers during Diwali, highlighting concerns about air and noise pollution.
The BMC’s accompanying caption said the appeal was made in accordance with directions from the Bombay High Court. It also stated that bursting firecrackers on public roads, lanes and footpaths was prohibited.
The civic body described the video as a public awareness initiative encouraging citizens to celebrate the festival while avoiding noise pollution.
BJP Mumbai chief criticises the appeal
Reacting to the video, Satam took to X to criticise the actor’s message, writing: “We don’t need lessons on how to celebrate #Diwali from @deespeak. Our traditions are deeply rooted in our culture.”
The BMC subsequently removed the video from its social media handles, prompting Mirza to respond to the controversy and reiterate her concerns about air quality.
The episode has brought renewed attention to the debate over festive celebrations, firecracker use and public health in Mumbai.
Dia Mirza’s work and environmental advocacy
Mirza, 44, has been associated with environmental protection and public awareness campaigns on sustainability and human well-being.
On the professional front, she was recently seen in Ikka, alongside Sunny Deol and Akshaye Khanna.
