• Mai Omar denied using any artificial methods to boost engagement with her series
• Her sarcastic tone sparked speculation about conflicts within the artistic community

Mai Omar sparked controversy on social media after posting a sharp message via her Instagram Stories, addressing accusations that she relied on so-called “Indian engagement pods” to promote her new series Six Mona Lisas.

In her message, Omar stressed that she does not need such tactics, emphasizing that real success comes from hard work and dedication—not through artificial campaigns or "unnatural" promotions .

The post stirred discussion and speculation about the party being referred to, especially given some followers’ tendency to assume there might be tension between her and one of her colleagues in the industry.

She addressed the promoters of these rumors with a sarcastic tone, suggesting they have “a very active imagination,” before clarifying that her full focus is on her artistic project, noting that the best response to any doubt is tangible success in real life.

She wrote: “Do you think I’d ever consider buying an Indian engagement pod? Definitely not—if I were in KG2 I’d think smarter than that.”

She added: “Guys, if I’m going to spend on something, I’ll spend it properly. And whoever made this story—bravo for the imagination—but let me tell you something important: I don’t need engagement pods. That’s a really cheap move. Someone confident in themselves and their audience focuses on their work only, and I’m focused on mine. My success speaks for itself. Six Mona Lisas upset a lot of people #IAmBusyWithMyself.”