New Delhi: In the midst of escalating tensions between India and the sparked by a controversial tweet from a Maldivian minister regarding the Lakshadweep Islands, notable Indian celebrities are leveraging their social media platforms to demonstrate solidarity with the archipelago and encourage their compatriots to discover the beauty of these islands.
The diplomatic dispute flared up when a Maldives minister accused India of targeting the nation and asserted that India struggled to compete with the Maldives in beach tourism. In response, Indian celebrities have rallied to champion the cause of Lakshadweep, highlighting its diverse and captivating beauty.
Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, expressing astonishment at derogatory comments from Maldivian public figures, posted on X, “Came across comments from prominent public figures from Maldives passing hateful and racist comments on Indians. Surprised that they are doing this to a country that sends them the maximum number of tourists. We are good to our neighbors, but why should we tolerate such unprovoked hate? I’ve visited the Maldives many times and always praised it, but dignity first. Let us decide to #ExploreIndianIslands and support our own tourism.”
Another popular actor, John Abraham, praised the hospitality and marine life in Lakshadweep, stating, “With amazing Indian hospitality, the idea of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava,’ and a vast marine life to explore, Lakshadweep is the place to go.”
Actress Shraddha Kapoor joined the chorus, expressing her desire to explore Lakshadweep’s pristine beaches and coastlines. She posted on X, “All these images and memes making me super FOMO now. Lakshadweep has such pristine beaches and coastlines, thriving local culture. I’m on the verge of booking an impulse chhutti. This year, why not #ExploreIndianIslands.”
Salman Khan, another prominent actor, praised the beautiful and clean beaches of Lakshadweep. He wrote, “It is so cool to see our Hon PM Narendrabhai Modi at the beautiful clean n stunning beaches of Lakshadweep, and the best part is that yeh hamare India mein hain.”
Even cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar joined the campaign, reminiscing about his recent experience in Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg. He wrote, “250+ days since we rang in my 50th birthday in Sindhudurg! The coastal town offered everything we wanted, and more. Gorgeous locations combined with wonderful hospitality left us with a treasure trove of memories. India is blessed with beautiful coastlines and pristine islands. With our ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ philosophy, we have so much to explore, so many memories waiting to be created.”
Diplomatic tensions between India and the Maldives have intensified in recent months, particularly after President Mohamed Muizzu assumed office in November last year. The new president has indicated a shift in foreign policy, signaling closer ties with China and a departure from the previous “India first” approach.
250+ days since we rang in my 50th birthday in Sindhudurg!
The coastal town offered everything we wanted, and more. Gorgeous locations combined with wonderful hospitality left us with a treasure trove of memories.
India is blessed with beautiful coastlines and pristine… pic.twitter.com/DUCM0NmNCz
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) January 7, 2024
