Mon Sep 08 08:00:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the text:

**Summary:**

Indian actress Navya Nair was fined approximately ₹1.14 lakhs (1980 Australian dollars) in Melbourne, Australia, for carrying a “gajra” (a string of flowers, typically jasmine) in her handbag. She was traveling to attend an Onam celebration. Australian regulations prohibit international travelers from bringing cut flowers or foliage without declaring them due to the risk of pests and diseases. While Navya claims she was unaware of the rules and considers it an unintentional mistake, she faces a fine that must be paid within 28 days. The Australian Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries warns that undeclared plant matter can result in significant fines and potentially visa cancellation.

**News Article:**

**Indian Actress Navya Nair Faces Hefty Fine in Australia Over Gajra**

**Melbourne, Australia –** Malayalam actress Navya Nair has found herself in a floral faux pas after being fined 1980 Australian dollars (approximately ₹1.14 lakhs) at Melbourne Airport for carrying a “gajra,” a traditional Indian hair adornment made of flowers.

Nair, known for her work in Malayalam cinema, was en route to participate in an Onam celebration organized by the Malayali Association of Victoria when customs officials discovered the undeclared flowers in her handbag.

According to Nair, her father had gifted her two gajras before her departure from Kochi. She wore one and placed the other, about 15 inches long, in her bag. The actress posted a humorous video on social media referencing the fine, captioning it with a wry comment about “drama before paying the fine.”

Australian regulations strictly prohibit international travelers from bringing cut flowers, foliage, or plant matter into the country without proper declaration, citing concerns about the introduction of pests and diseases. The Australian Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries mandates that travelers declare any plant-related items on their arrival cards for inspection. Failure to do so can result in fines up to 6600 Australian dollars, potential legal action, and even visa cancellation.

Nair acknowledged her mistake, stating that she was unaware of the regulations. Authorities have given her 28 days to pay the fine. The incident serves as a reminder to travelers to familiarize themselves with the specific biosecurity regulations of their destination countries before packing.

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