16 January 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : The civic elections in Mumbai witnessed unexpectedly low visibility from Bollywood’s biggest names this year, as several high-profile celebrities including Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit, and other A-list stars were notably absent from polling booths on the day of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections.
The absence of such prominent public figures has sparked widespread discussion across social media platforms and public forums, with many questioning the role of celebrities in encouraging civic responsibility. Bollywood stars, who command massive influence over public opinion and youth culture, are often seen as role models when it comes to social participation, including voting.
The BMC elections are considered one of the most significant civic exercises in the country, given Mumbai’s status as India’s financial and entertainment capital. Over the years, several film stars have actively participated in voting, often sharing images from polling booths and urging fans to exercise their democratic right. This year, however, the lack of visibility from many top celebrities caught the attention of both fans and political observers.
Social media users were quick to react. While some fans expressed disappointment over their favourite stars not being seen at polling stations, others urged caution, pointing out that there could be various reasons for their absence. Supporters argued that celebrities, like all citizens, have personal schedules, health issues, travel commitments, or privacy concerns that may prevent them from appearing publicly even if they have voted.
Industry insiders also suggested that many actors are currently busy with shooting schedules, international travel, and professional commitments, making it difficult to coordinate public appearances. Some may have chosen to vote discreetly without media attention, while others may be registered to vote in different constituencies depending on their official residence.
Nevertheless, the debate highlights the larger conversation about celebrity influence and civic duty. In the age of social media, film stars possess enormous reach, with millions of followers across platforms. A single post encouraging voting can significantly influence public behaviour, especially among younger demographics. This is why their absence from visible civic participation often attracts criticism.
Public figures from other industries, including sports personalities and business leaders, were seen participating in the polling process and sharing messages promoting voter awareness. Their presence further intensified the contrast with Bollywood’s missing A-list participation.
Political analysts believe that celebrity engagement in civic processes plays an important symbolic role. While voting is a personal choice, public participation from influential individuals can help normalize civic responsibility and encourage higher voter turnout. Mumbai, like many metropolitan cities, continues to struggle with voter apathy, particularly among urban youth.
Some observers also raised concerns about the growing disconnect between public expectations and celebrity lifestyles. Many fans feel that stars frequently use social causes for promotional campaigns but remain silent when real-world participation is required. Others, however, argue that it is unfair to demand public proof of voting, as it remains a private act protected by democratic principles.
In previous elections, Bollywood celebrities including Deepika Padukone, Akshay Kumar, Salman Khan, and others have been seen standing in queues, interacting with voters, and publicly advocating participation. Their actions were widely praised and often credited with encouraging greater youth turnout. The absence of several top names this time has therefore stood out more sharply.
Civic engagement experts stress that India’s democracy thrives when citizens from all walks of life participate actively. Whether they are actors, athletes, entrepreneurs, or ordinary citizens, every individual’s participation strengthens the democratic fabric. Celebrities, due to their influence, hold a unique position where their actions can have broader social impact.
Despite the controversy, it remains unclear whether the celebrities in question actually skipped voting or simply chose not to make their participation public. Many fans have urged restraint, emphasizing that voting is a right, not a publicity event, and that personal circumstances should be respected.
The incident has nevertheless reignited the discussion about responsibility, influence, and public perception in celebrity culture. As conversations continue online and offline, one thing is evident: the public increasingly expects influential figures to not only speak about social responsibility but also visibly participate in it.
As Mumbai moves forward with its civic processes, the episode serves as a reminder of the powerful intersection between entertainment, public influence, and democratic participation.
Summary
Several top Bollywood celebrities, including the Bachchan family, Shah Rukh Khan, and Madhuri Dixit, were absent from public view on BMC polling day, sparking debate about celebrity responsibility and civic participation.