India, Nov. 2 -- Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde on Monday defended the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)'s decision to take down a video featuring actor Dia Mirza on celebrating pollution-free Diwali.

Hitting out at the actor, Tawde said Hindus are well aware of how to celebrate Diwali and don't need Mirza to "teach them". "Regarding how Hindus should celebrate Diwali-we certainly do not need Dia Mirza to teach us. We know how to celebrate our own Diwali. You should focus on your selective agenda," Tawde said.

She also accused the actor of opposing the government's efforts to address the environmental crisis. "She has even opposed statements made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Consistently, her opposition appears to be directed agains...