Mira Kapoor Appeals to Stop Firecrackers Amid Rising Air Pollution in Delhi, Mumbai

As air pollution soared in major Indian cities following Diwali, actor Shahid Kapoor’s wife, Mira Rajput Kapoor, called on the public to halt the use of firecrackers. Mira’s social media message emphasized the urgent need for environmental responsibility and challenged the normalization of firecrackers under the guise of tradition or entertainment for children.

On Tuesday, Mira shared her concerns on Instagram Stories, stating: “Why are we still bursting crackers? It’s not okay even if it’s ‘just for the kids to see once’ or ‘we’re just doing it once for them to have the experience.’ Neither is it okay for your pataka aesthetic to hold a phuljhadi for the gram. Let’s please stop normalising this.” Her post highlighted the dangers of prioritizing celebration aesthetics over public health and the environment.

The actor’s remarks came amid reports of deteriorating air quality in India’s metropolitan areas. Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed the 400 mark, entering the “severe” category, while Mumbai recorded “very poor” AQI readings in several localities. Environmental experts have repeatedly cautioned against the health hazards posed by such pollution spikes, especially affecting children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.

Mira also addressed the irony of selective environmental awareness, adding: “Say no to crackers cannot be the poster you get your kids to make for Earth Day and then forget about it when Diwali comes along. AQI news is not just for the next Instagram story - it’s the air our children breathe. And what’s sad is, despite the privilege, education, awareness, and affluence, what lacks is common sense. So no, I won’t send my kids to watch while you’ll have some cracker fun. Please stop.”

The couple, married in 2015, are parents to two children: daughter Misha (born 2016) and son Zain (born 2018). Mira’s stand reinforces the growing call among celebrities and environmental advocates to rethink Diwali celebrations and adopt eco-friendly alternatives, such as LED lights and eco-patilas, to safeguard public health and the environment.

Mira Kapoor’s candid appeal has sparked widespread discussion online, encouraging fans and followers to reconsider festive practices that compromise air quality and community well-being.