HT's full coverage of Maldives row: PM Modi's tweet, ministers' remarks and more

Salman Khan praised the clean beaches of Lakshadweep saying, “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.”

Shraddha Kapoor expressed her wish to explore Lakshadweep's beaches and coastlines, saying, “All these images and memes making me super FOMO now. Lakshadweep has such pristine beaches and coastlines, thriving local culture, I'm on the verge of booking an impulse chhutti This year, why not #ExploreIndianIslands.”

John Abraham praised the hospitality and marine life in Lakshadweep saying in a post on X, “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 Akshay Kumar expressed his astonishment at the derogatory comments from some Maldives public figures.

"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 said.

When Maldives minister accused India of targeting the nation and claimed that India faced challenges in competing with the Maldives in beach tourism, Indian celebrities had no choice. From Akshay Kumar to Sachin Tendulkar, celebrities came forward to champion the cause of Lakshadweep and show the beauty of the Indian islands.

Maldives government issues a statement on remarks by its minister on PM Modi. “These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives,” Male said.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar shared a post on X (formerly Twitter) urging people to visit Indian islands amid Maldives controversy.

Sachin Tendulkar said, “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. 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.”

Former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed condemned the derogatory remarks made by a Maldives minister, saying, “What appalling language by Maldives Government official @shiuna_m towards the leader of a key ally, that is instrumental for Maldives' security and prosperity. @MMuizzu gov must distance itself from these comments and give clear assurance to India they do not reflect gov policy.”

PM Modi's visit to Lakshadweep was seen a move to promote tourism on the island. Lakshadweep comprises 36 islands with an area of 32 sqkm.