If Mayawati has no interest in Saifai's art and culture, it is her choice: Amar Singh

NEW DELHI: Taking a dig at BSP supremo Mayawati over her allegation that public money is wasted in "Saifai Mahotsav", Samajwadi Party leader Amar Singh said it is a "matter of thinking" and it is "her choice" if she does not have interest in art and culture.

"There is no cost in Saifai Mahotsav. Before Amitabh Bachchan had come and had not taken any money. When Salman Khan came, he also donated a good amount...If artists come and encourage art and culture, it cannot be called a waste of money.

"If Mayawati doesn't have interest in art and culture, it is her choice. (SP Chief) Mulayamji has acceptance not only in politics but also in arts," he said outside Parliament.

Earlier, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati, speaking at the 61st death anniversary of Dr Ambedkar, trained guns at the Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party, alleging that public money is wasted in the name of "Saifai Mahotsav".

Underlining that it is a "matter of thinking", Singh said he does not agree with the Mayawati's view in this regard.

"You can criticise Sonal Mansingh also, Bismillah Khan's shehnai, Hema Malini's dance...This is a matter of thought and I don't agree at all with Mayawati's belief (in this regard)," he said.

'Saifai Mahotsav' is an annual controversial event, which is famous for participation of bollywood celebrities. Saifai is a small village in Etawah, which is SP supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav's strong hold.