Bollywood stars react to Maldives row
Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, Salman Khan, John Abraham, Tiger Shroff, Shraddha Kapoor and many other Bollywood actors have joined the growing calls to explore Indian islands like Lakshadweep instead of planning a holiday in Maldives.
The row started after three Maldivian ministers made derogatory posts on India Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent trip to Lakshadweep where he pitched the island as a domestic tourist destination. Modi posted on X showing how pristine the Lakshadweep Islands were as he also posted pictures of him chilling on the beach and even trying snorkelling.
The three Maldivian ministers have since been suspended. “The government of Maldives is aware of derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals. These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the government of Maldives,” the Maldives Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
Akshay Kumar, who recently rang in the New Year with his family in Maldives, took to X to react to comments. The actor wrote, “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.”
John Abraham also took to X to promote tourism in Indian islands. He tweeted along with some mesmerising pictures of the Lakshadweep Islands, “With the amazing Indian hospitality, the idea of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ and a vast marine life to explore. Lakshwadeep is the place to go. #exploreindianislands.”
Shraddha also 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 (holiday). This year, why not #ExploreIndianIslands.”
Salman Khan hposted on X, he tweeted on Sunday, “It is so cool to see our Hon PM Narendrabhai Modi at the beautiful clean and stunning beaches of Lakshadweep, and the best part is that yeh hamare India mein hain (these islands are in India). @narendramodi.”
Tiger Shroff posted, “Lost in the azure embrace, Lakshadweep islands have captured my heart. The rich culture, tranquil beaches, and the genuine warmth of its people create an enchanting allure. Join me in celebrating the inclusivity and unparalleled beauty of these islands – a treasure trove waiting for us to explore! 🏝️🌊 #Lakshadweep #ExploreIndianIslands”
Varun Dhawan posted on X, “Seeing our honourable prime minister @narendramodi sir at the beaches in Lakshadweep makes me realise Iv been missing out on our pristine beaches and water
Can’t wait to book my next holiday #ExploreIndianIslands”
Recently, I had the opportunity to be among the people of Lakshadweep. I am still in awe of the stunning beauty of its islands and the incredible warmth of its people. I had the opportunity to interact with people in Agatti, Bangaram and Kavaratti. I thank the people of the… pic.twitter.com/tYW5Cvgi8N
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 4, 2024
Viru paji .. this is so relevant and in the right spirit of our land .. our own are the very best .. I have been to Lakshadweep and Andamans and they are such astonishingly beautiful locations .. stunning waters beaches and the underwater experience is simply unbelievable ..
हम… https://t.co/NM400eJAbm— Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) January 8, 2024
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.
— Salman Khan (@BeingSalmanKhan) January 7, 2024
Seeing our honourable prime minister @narendramodi sir at the beaches in Lakshadweep makes me realise Iv been missing out on our pristine beaches and water
Can’t wait to book my next holiday #ExploreIndianIslands pic.twitter.com/DRXP7ZLMBd— VarunDhawan (@Varun_dvn) January 7, 2024
This picture was taken outside #Kaia, my first hotel venture in Goa.
India has some of the most vibrant coasts, best beaches, hospitality & food.
Next on my bucket list – The #Lakshadweep Islands 🙂 #ExploreIndianIslands pic.twitter.com/d20oSnL7ih
— bhumi pednekar (@bhumipednekar) January 7, 2024
