Ex-VP Ahmed Sad To See Bollywood Actors' Comments Against Maldives, Here's Why

Amid the ongoing row over India-Maldives and Indian actors responding to Maldives MP's remarks former Vice President of Maldives, Ahmed Adeeb said "When I was the minister, I welcomed a lot of Bollywood actors. They engaged with us and helped us in building the Maldives where it is now." Further, he added, " It is very sad that we have come to a situation where they have to comment against us. After COVID, it has been the Indian tourists who have really recovered the Maldives tourism industry."

This remark by Maldivian EX-VP Ahmed came after Indian Bollywood actors blasted the Maldivian authorities on social media for their derogatory remarks.

India-Maldives row: #ExploreIndianIslands trends on social media
"With the amazing Indian hospitality, the idea of "Atithi Devo Bhava" and a vast marine life to explore. Lakshwadeep is the place to go," Bollywood actor John Abraham said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

"India is so beautiful. Was over awed by the pristine beauty and the rich history of Andaman and Nicobar Islands while shooting the Kalapani chapter of Veer Savarkar's life .. a must visit," actor Randeep Hooda said.

"Incredible India is not just a tag, our beautiful country has some of the most incredible and stunning locales and #Lakshadweep is an example of it- a heaven-like place in India itself! Can't wait to explore this beautiful Indian island," wrote actor Kartik Aryan.

"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," stated Salman Khan on the social media platform.

Taking to X, Sachin wrote, " 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." Further, he added, "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."

Meanwhile, Actor Akshay Kumar wrote, "Came across comments from prominent public figures from Maldives passing hateful and racist comments on Indians. Surprised that they are doing this to a country that sends them the maximum number of tourists." Further, he stressed that "We are good to our neighbors but why should we tolerate such unprovoked hate? I've visited the Maldives many times and always praised it, but dignity first. Let us decide to #ExploreIndianIslands and support our own tourism."

India-Maldives row: Top Points

Here's what has happened so far:

1. A massive row was triggered between India and Maldives after derogatory remarks were made against PM Modi by a minister of the island country over his recent visit to the Union Territory of Lakshadweep.

2. Words like 'clown' and 'puppet' for the Prime Minister of India were used by Maldives Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment Mariyam Shiuna, reported Mint.

3. Huge outrage was sparked in India as a result of the derogatory remarks, with calls for boycotting travel to Maldives due to its anti-India stand.

4. As the matter gained noise, the remarks of the Maldivian minister were slammed by former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed, who hailed India as a "key ally" for the security and prosperity of the archipelago nation.

5. "What appalling language by Maldives Government official Mariyam Shiuna towards the leader of a key ally, that is instrumental for the Maldives' security and prosperity," Mohamed Nasheed said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

6. "The Mohamed Muizzu government must distance itself from these comments and give clear assurance to India they do not reflect government policy (sic)," the former president added.

7. The remarks of its minister were distanced by the newly-elected government of Mohammad Muizzu on Sunday, stating that the relevant authorities "will not hesitate to take action against those who make such derogatory remarks," according to ANI.

8. Concerns over the remarks against the Indian Prime Minister were raised by India, and diplomatic channels are being used to communicate India's position with the officials of Maldives.

9. The development comes as Mohammad Muizzu led his election campaign on an anti-India plank, and the relations between the two nations have tanked since his election as the President of the country.

10. The new government of Maldives is closely aligning itself with the Arab world as Mohammad Muizzu's first international trip was to Turkey- a nation known for its anti-India views, according to Mint.