BMC removes Dia Mirza Diwali video after BJP objection

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) removed a Diwali awareness video featuring actor Dia Mirza from its social media accounts on Sunday (1 November 2026) after BJP Mumbai president Ameet Satam objected in an X post. Satam wrote: ‘We don’t need lessons on how to celebrate #Diwali from @deespeak. Our traditions are deeply rooted in our culture.’ Videos featuring Madhuri Dixit, Ajinkya Rahane and Nishigandha Wad, part of the same campaign, remain online.

Mirza told News9 exclusively that the video was recorded for public awareness and that every effort to reduce air pollution creates a better environment. Mumbai Deputy Mayor Sanjay Ghadi told India TV he disagreed with Satam’s objection and would direct the BMC administration to re-upload the video. The BMC has not officially explained the removal. The campaign followed a Bombay High Court observation on air pollution and a restriction on bursting firecrackers on public roads, parks and common areas.

Update, 2 November 2026: India TV reports Mumbai Deputy Mayor Sanjay Ghadi criticised the removal and said he will direct the administration to restore the video. ABP Live adds that BJP MLC Shrikant Bharatiya also criticised Mirza, urging her to ‘introspect’ about the community she represents. The four other outlets carry PTI wire copy confirming the sequence but offering no new official statement from the BMC.