In the wake of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep and the subsequent diplomatic row with the Maldives, several Indian celebrities, including Bollywood stars and sports legends, have taken to social media to advocate for the “Visit Lakshadweep” message.
Their involvement has brought significant attention to the pristine beauty of Lakshadweep, highlighting it as a premier tourist destination.
Celebrity Advocacy for Lakshadweep
Bollywood personalities like Akshay Kumar, Salman Khan, John Abraham, Shraddha Kapoor, Kangana Ranaut, and cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar have been vocal in their support for Lakshadweep.
They have used their social media platforms to showcase the archipelago’s allure, with some directly referencing PM Modi’s visit and the response from the Maldives.
Akshay Kumar’s Strong Stance
Akshay Kumar expressed his surprise and disappointment at the derogatory comments made by Maldivian leaders against Indians. He emphasized the importance of dignity and urged Indians to explore their own islands, promoting domestic tourism over international destinations like the Maldives.
Salman Khan and Shraddha Kapoor’s Enthusiasm
Salman Khan praised PM Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep, highlighting the beauty and cleanliness of its beaches. Similarly, Shraddha Kapoor expressed her desire to visit Lakshadweep, citing the region’s stunning beaches and thriving local culture.
John Abraham and Kangana Ranaut’s Reactions
John Abraham shared captivating images of Lakshadweep’s beaches, recommending it as a must-visit destination. Kangana Ranaut responded to the Maldivian minister’s remarks against PM Modi, criticizing the racist and uninformed nature of the comments.
Sachin Tendulkar’s Tribute to Indian Coastlines
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar shared a video of himself playing cricket on a beach, celebrating India’s beautiful coastlines and islands. He emphasized the country’s welcoming philosophy of “Atithi Devo Bhava” (The guest is God).
The Impact of PM Modi’s Visit
PM Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep on January 4, where he shared pictures of his time in the archipelago, including snorkeling, has sparked comparisons with the Maldives. This has led to a surge in interest in Lakshadweep as a tourist spot, rivaling the popularity of the Maldives.
The Maldives-Lakshadweep Controversy
The controversy began with derogatory remarks from Maldivian political leaders against PM Modi, mocking his visit to Lakshadweep. This sparked a backlash among Indian internet users, with the hashtag “#BoycottMaldives” trending online.
Conclusion
The involvement of Indian celebrities in promoting Lakshadweep following the diplomatic row with the Maldives has played a significant role in shifting the focus towards domestic tourism. Their advocacy highlights the importance of exploring and appreciating India’s natural beauty, particularly its lesser-known destinations like Lakshadweep.
