ET Online
In response to derogatory remarks made by Maldivian ministers regarding Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s Lakshadweep visit, Indian celebrities are rallying support for domestic tourism. Prominent figures like Akshay Kumar, John Abraham, Salman Khan and Sachin Tendulkar have taken to social media to encourage people to explore Indian islands such as Lakshadweep and Sindhudurg.
Akshay Kumar expressed surprise at the unprovoked hate from Maldives public figures and called for Indians to prioritise their dignity. He urged citizens to support domestic tourism, stating, “Let us decide to #ExploreIndianIslands and support our own tourism.”
John Abraham emphasised the amazing Indian hospitality and the concept of “Atithi Devo Bhava” (Guest is God) while endorsing Lakshadweep as a must-visit destination.
“With the amazing Indian hospitality, the idea of “Atithi Devo Bhava” and a vast marine life to explore. Lakshadweep is the place to go. #exploreindianislands,” John conveyed in his X post.
Sachin Tendulkar shared fond memories of his visit to Sindhudurg, praising India’s beautiful coastlines and pristine islands. He encouraged fellow Indians to explore the country’s diverse locations.
“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. #ExploreIndianIslands,” Tendulkar wrote on X.Salman Khan expressed his support for PM Modi on X, saying, “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.” The derogatory comments by Maldivian ministers have led to widespread criticism and calls for a boycott of the Maldives as a tourist destination.
Despite the controversy, there has been no apology or retraction of statements from the ministers involved. However, the Maldives government issued a statement acknowledging, “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…Moreover, the relevant authorities of the Government will not hesitate to take action against those who make such derogatory remarks.”
PM Modi’s Lakshadweep visit
PM Modi visited the Union Territory of Lakshadweep on January 2 and shared several pictures, including an ‘exhilarating experience’ after he tried his hand at snorkelling.
In a series of posts on X, PM Modi shared pictures of the white beaches and the pristine blue skies and the ocean, and tagged them with a message that read, “For those who wish to embrace the adventurer in them, Lakshadweep has to be on your list.”
“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 islands for their hospitality. Here are some glimpses, including aerial glimpses from Lakshadweep…During my stay, I also tried snorkelling – what an exhilarating experience it was! For those who wish to embrace the adventurer in them, Lakshadweep has to be on your list,” PM Modi posted on X.
He also laid the foundation stone for development projects worth over Rs 1,150 crore in Agatti on Tuesday.
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