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Mumbai, November 4, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Actress Soni Razdan has strongly opposed the bursting of firecrackers during Diwali, arguing that even setting off a single cracker is unacceptable amid concerns over worsening air pollution and its impact on children's health.
In a social media post, the mother of actress Alia Bhatt highlighted the difficulties faced by children because of polluted air, including illness and missed school days. She criticized those who consider bursting even one cracker acceptable under the circumstances.
“Any parent of a young child will tell you how much their children are suffering because of air pollution. How many school days they miss because of illness,” she wrote.
Razdan added that allowing even one cracker to be burst during Diwali appeared to her to be “anti-life, anti-health and yes… anti-national”.
“Health is a choice we make for ourselves and our children. Let us make the right one,” she said.
Her remarks come amid a controversy over the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) Diwali anti-pollution awareness campaign, particularly the removal of a video featuring actress Dia Mirza.
The civic body had roped in several public figures, including Mirza, Madhuri Dixit, Nishigandha Wad and cricketer Ajinkya Rahane, to promote awareness about air and noise pollution.
Mirza's appeal to Mumbaikars to celebrate an eco-friendly Diwali and avoid firecrackers drew objections from Mumbai BJP chief Ameet Satam, who said people did not need lessons on celebrating the festival and stressed that traditions were rooted in culture.
The BMC subsequently removed her video from its social media platforms. The row intensified after Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde criticized Mirza, accusing her of taking an anti-Hindu and anti-government stand.
The awareness campaign followed Bombay High Court directions concerning restrictions on firecrackers in public spaces and the need to create awareness about pollution.