Navya Nair, a well-known Malayalam actress, recently faced an unexpected situation at Melbourne International Airport in Australia. She was fined AUD 1,980, which is approximately Rs 1.14 lakh, for carrying a jasmine gajra (a string of flowers worn in the hair) in her hand luggage. The incident occurred during her trip to Australia to participate in Onam celebrations organized by the Malayali Association of Victoria.

Navya Nair is a prominent figure in the Malayalam film industry, known for her roles in various successful movies. She has a significant fan following and is recognized for her acting skills and contributions to Malayalam cinema.

According to reports, the 15-centimeter string of jasmine flowers was packed by her father before her departure from Kochi. He had divided the gajra into two parts, asking her to wear one during her journey to Singapore and to keep the other in her handbag for the onward journey to Australia. Unknowingly, this seemingly innocent act violated Australia's strict biosecurity laws.

Australia has some of the strictest biosecurity laws in the world, designed to protect the country's unique environment, agriculture, and wildlife from foreign pests and diseases. These regulations prohibit the entry of certain plants and flowers to prevent potential harm to the local ecosystem.

Upon discovering the jasmine gajra, authorities at Melbourne Airport imposed the fine. Navya Nair acknowledged the violation and admitted that she was unaware of the specific regulations. She stated that it was a mistake made unknowingly and that "ignorance is no excuse". She has been instructed to pay the fine within 28 days.

Despite the hefty fine, Navya Nair has taken the incident in stride, describing it as a learning experience. She even shared a video on her Instagram account with a sarcastic caption in Malayalam, referring to the "drama just before paying the fine!!!".

The Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry states that international travelers are allowed to bring fresh-cut flowers and foliage only if they are declared upon arrival. The materials are then inspected for pests and diseases by biosecurity officers. Failing to declare plant material on the Incoming Passenger Card can result in fines of up to AUD 6,600, possible criminal prosecution, or even visa cancellation.