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Akshay Kumar and Fellow Celebrities Back Lakshadweep Tourism Amidst Backlash

PM Modi recently visited Lakshadweep and shared photos on social media that quickly went viral. He received a lot of media coverage after tweeting pictures of himself snorkeling and going on early walks.

As a result, several Indian social media users suggested that the island Union Territory be promoted as a potential alternative vacation spot to the Maldives. If you also want to discover the enchanting beauty of Lakshadweep, make sure to visit Flyopedia to book cheap flights to Cochin from USA.

Things took a turn for the worse when the tweet sparked a major diplomatic row between India and the Maldives, that was sparked by anti-India sentiments made by Maldivian government officials.

In response to the increased international interest in Lakshadweep as a result of PM Modi’s tweet, Zahid Rameez, a council member of the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), condemned the PM’s visit, arguing that India could never compete with Maldives in tourism. “While promoting Lakshadweep is commendable,” Rameez went on to say, “the belief that they can match our level of service is simply delusional.”

In response, India formally expressed its concerns to Male, causing the Maldives Government to issue a statement separating itself from the remarks and suspending three officials in response to India’s objection.

According to government sources, promoting Indian tourism destinations has been a constant priority of the Narendra Modi government, with the Prime Minister previously highlighting different regions such as Sikkim, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Jammu and Kashmir by sharing images from these places.

Indian Celebrities Rally for Maldives Boycott

In response to the issue, Indian celebrities such as former cricketer Aakash Chopra and actor Akshay Kumar have joined demands to boycott the Maldives. Aakash Chopra stressed the importance of making informed decisions, stating, “‘India Out’ was part of the manifesto.” It was approved by the Maldives.”

Akshay Kumar stressed that people should not tolerate such irrational hostility in response to the words of Maldivian officials. He urged people to visit Indian islands and promote Indian tourism.

“I came across statements from prominent Maldivian public figures making disparaging and racist remarks about Indians.” They’re astonishingly doing this to the country with the most visitors. Why should we put up with such unprovoked hostility if we are nice neighbors? “I’ve visited the Maldives several times and have always enjoyed it, but dignity comes first.” “Let us decide to #ExploreIndianIslands and support our own tourism,” Kumar wrote on ‘X’.

More Famous Personalities Join to Endorse the Agenda

“With the amazing Indian hospitality, the idea of “Atithi Devo Bhava,” and a vast marine life to explore,” John Abraham said of the hashtag #ExploreIndianIslands. Lakshwadeep is the destination.”

Shradha Kapoor, a Bollywood actress, stated on Instagram, “Lakshadweep has such pristine beaches and coastlines, thriving local culture, I’m on the verge of booking an impulse chhutti.” Why not #ExploreIndianIslands this year?”

“It is really great to watch our Hon PM Narendrabhai Modi at the gorgeous clean and stunning beaches of Lakshadweep, and the best part is that yeh hamare India mein hain (these islands are in India”),” Salman Khan wrote. @narendramodi.”

Sachin Tendulkar also posted a video of himself playing cricket on a beach, along with the caption, “India is blessed with beautiful coastlines and pristine islands.” With our “Atithi Devo Bhava” concept, there is so much to discover and so many memories to make.”

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Maldives-Lakshadweep Row

In reaction to a remark that PM Modi’s move is a “big setback” for the Maldives and “will boost” tourism in Lakshadweep, Zahid Rameez, a member of the Progressive Party, attacked Indians and declared that competing with the island nation for tourism was “delusional” in one of his tweets.

“The relocation is wonderful. The idea of competing with us, on the other hand, is absurd. How can they provide the same level of service that we do? How are they so spotless? The worst disadvantage will be the lingering stink in the apartments,” the Maldivian politician said on X.

Rameez’s comment sparked a firestorm on the microblogging site, with many harshly criticizing him, and the hashtag “#BoycottMaldives” began trending on the social media network.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Lakshadweep on January 4 and tweeted images of himself snorkeling and enjoying himself in the islands. The photos quickly went viral, with many comparing them to the Maldives and claiming that it was a better tourist destination than the Maldives.

So, if you also want to discover the magical beauty of Lakshadweep and other enticing Indian islands, check out Flyopedia for cheap air tickets to India from USA.

Also Read: Flavorful Journeys: Rules and Tips for Bringing American Cuisine to India