Dia Mirza’s latest controversy began with a simple appeal for a pollution-free Diwali. But what should have remained a public awareness campaign soon turned into a debate over whether celebrities should speak on social issues.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) had roped in Dia for its campaign encouraging people to celebrate Diwali responsibly. The initiative followed the Bombay High Court‘s directions on controlling pollution. However, Mumbai BJP chief Ameet Satam objected to her participation, questioning why she was giving people lessons on celebrating the festival.
Following the criticism, the BMC removed Dia’s video from its social media accounts. Interestingly, similar appeals from other celebrities remained online.
Dia later clarified that she had recorded the video at the request of the BMC and the High Court in the public interest. She also said she had not charged any fee for the campaign.
The episode raises a larger question. Celebrities are often invited to use their popularity for public awareness campaigns. But when they speak about issues that invite disagreement, should they be told to stay away? An actress’s job may be to entertain, but that does not mean her voice has to end where the camera stops.
