The controversy began after a video surfaced showing the Mayor asking a couple to move away from the Coastal Road railing during dangerous sea conditions. The clip quickly went viral, prompting criticism on social media and political attacks, including remarks from Aaditya Thackeray.
With rainfall easing and normalcy returning to Mumbai, Tawde responded to her critics, stating that the people of Mumbai—not her political opponents—would decide whether she was a "reels star" or a "real star." She asserted that her actions were motivated solely by her responsibility toward the city's residents.
Explaining the circumstances surrounding her visit, Tawde said she had gone to the Coastal Road after receiving alerts about high sea waves. During the inspection, she noticed young children sitting on the edge of the railing while powerful waves were crashing against the shoreline. She said the waves were so intense that they could have swept the children into the sea, making immediate intervention necessary.
"As the Mayor of Mumbai and a public servant, I went there for the safety of my fellow citizens. I did not go there to become a 'reels star.' The people of Mumbai alone have the right to decide whether I am a 'reels star' or a 'real star,' and no one else has that authority," Tawde said while responding to the criticism.
Reflecting on her political journey, Tawde said that despite occupying the city's highest civic office, she continues to consider herself a grassroots worker. She said her career has been built through continuous public service, beginning as a municipal councillor before eventually becoming Mayor. According to Tawde, the activist within her will always remain active because she has spent years participating in public movements and working directly on the streets among citizens. She added that those who know her personally are well aware of her style of functioning.
Tawde began her political career with the Indian National Congress before joining the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2012. She has since been elected as a municipal councillor from the Ghatkopar region on three consecutive occasions from different wards. She first won from Ward 127 in 2012, secured victory again from Ward 121 in 2017, and was elected for a third term from Ward 132 in the 2025 BMC elections.
The controversy surrounding the Coastal Road visit has evolved into a wider political debate over leadership, public accountability, and civic responsibility. While the viral video triggered criticism and political attacks, Tawde has maintained that her presence at the site reflected her commitment to protecting Mumbai residents during hazardous weather conditions, insisting that public service—not publicity—guided her actions.
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