NATIONAL : Indian celebrities have strongly criticized derogatory remarks by Maldivian leaders against India and expressed support for promoting Indian beach tourism.

It comes amid the row over derogatory and ‘anti-India’ remarks made by Maldives minister, leaders, and other public figures after Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the union territory of Lakshadweep.

Actor Akshay Kumar, in a strongly worded post on X, slammed Maldivian leaders for mocking PM Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep and comparing beach tourism in India with Maldives through “hateful and racist comments.”

The ‘Khiladi’ actor emphasised India’s role as a major tourist contributor to the Maldives while pointing out that India sends the maximum number of tourists to the island nation.

“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. 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,” Akshay Kumar posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Actor Salman Khan heaped praises on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for visiting Lakshadweep and posting ‘cool’ and beautiful pictures from the island.

Cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar also took to the social media platform and lauded Sindhudurg, the coastal town in Maharashtra, and its beautiful coastlines and pristine islands. (ANI)