'Shame on Airtel, respect Hindu festivals': Telecom giant criticised for issuing pollution-free Diwali ad

As Diwali approaches, an Airtel advertisement encouraging a pollution-free celebration has ignited controversy, with some critics accusing the telecom giant of disrespecting Hindu traditions. The ad, which promotes eco-friendly festivities, drew backlash from public figures, including author Shefali Vaidya and industrialist Mohandas Pai, who argued that the message was a misplaced attempt at social messaging during a religious festival.

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On social media platform X, Vaidya expressed her discontent, stating, “Dear @airtelindia, Deepawali is a Hindu festival, not an occasion to peddle your work agenda! Learn to show respect to Hindu customers.” Mohandas Pai echoed this sentiment, calling the ad “very, very communal” and adding, “People and their festivals need to be respected and not be communal @airtelnews.”

Shame on @airtelindia for being very very communal. People and their festivals need to be respected and not be communal @airtelnewshttps://t.co/sRdbP7zfo8

— Mohandas Pai (@TVMohandasPai)

Shame on @airtelindia for being very very communal. People and their festivals need to be respected and not be communal @airtelnewshttps://t.co/sRdbP7zfo8

— Mohandas Pai (@TVMohandasPai) October 28, 2024

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Amidst this backlash, environmental advocates have maintained their stance on reducing pollution during Diwali, highlighting the impact of firecrackers on air quality. Some states, including Karnataka, have imposed restrictions, limiting the time for fireworks to two hours, from 8 pm to 10 pm, and calls for the use of only eco-friendly, green crackers have intensified.

The debate around the ad and the broader issue of pollution during Diwali underscores the tensions between cultural traditions and environmental responsibility, with both sides urging respect and sensitivity in addressing this complex issue.