Mumbai residents are finding both humor and heartache in a new song released by comedian and actor Vir Das, titled "AQI, AQI, Let Me Die," which highlights the city's escalating air pollution crisis. The satirical yet poignant song, shared on Instagram, encapsulates the daily struggles of Mumbaikars, from smog-filled mornings and dry throats to the constant construction disrupting their lives.
Das's lyrics paint a vivid picture of life amidst the toxic air, questioning the relentless construction of high-rise apartments and their impact on residents' health. He sings about children confined indoors and the elderly struggling to breathe, capturing the despair of those most vulnerable to the pollution. The song's refrain, "AQI, AQI, let me die," poignantly summarizes the frustration and resignation felt by many in the face of the worsening air quality.
The comedian's musical commentary comes as Mumbai grapples with persistently poor air quality. Data indicates that Mumbai endured "no-pristine-air" in November, with approximately 80% of the days falling into the "moderate" Air Quality Index (AQI) category. On November 26, the city recorded its worst AQI of the month at 198, with ozone identified as the major pollutant. On November 29, 2025, the AQI in Mumbai is reported as 118, which is classified as "Poor". The main pollutants are PM10 at 118.61 µg/M³ and PM2.5 at 111.59 µg/M³.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken steps to address the crisis, including issuing stop-work notices to 53 construction sites found to be contributing to the pollution. The BMC has also reiterated the importance of adhering to air pollution guidelines, including the mandatory installation of operational AQI monitoring sensors at construction sites. Additional Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Joshi has warned of strict action against those who fail to comply.
The Bombay High Court has also intervened, dismissing claims that volcanic ash from Ethiopia was to blame for the deteriorating air quality. The court noted that Mumbai's poor AQI predates the volcanic activity, emphasizing the need to address local sources of pollution.
While authorities scramble to implement measures, experts and activists emphasize the urgent need for long-term, sustainable solutions. Concerns are growing about the health impacts of prolonged exposure to polluted air, especially on children, who are more vulnerable due to their faster breathing rates and still-developing lungs. Doctors report an increase in respiratory illnesses, including coughs, throat irritation, and bronchitis, even among children with no prior history.
Das's song has resonated with Mumbaikars, who are using social media to share their own experiences and frustrations. The video has sparked conversations about the city's environmental crisis and the need for collective action. Through his comedic lens, Vir Das has amplified the voices of those struggling to breathe in a city increasingly choked by pollution, prompting both laughter and a renewed call for change.
