Veteran Indian lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar stirred controversy by declaring he would rather go to hell than visit Pakistan again. The comment, made during the launch of Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut’s book Narkatla Swarg in Mumbai, surprised many, particularly given Akhtar’s history of being warmly welcomed at various literature festivals in Pakistan. He framed the statement as a reaction to being labeled both a “kaafir” and a “jihadi” by different groups, but the harshness of the sentiment struck a chord, especially in Pakistan.
Pakistani Celebrities Condemn Akhtar’s Remarks, Highlighting Hypocrisy Amid Past Warm Hospitality
Unsurprisingly, the backlash from across the border was swift and biting. Celebrities like Zhalay Sarhadi and Sharmila Faruqui responded with sharp rebukes, accusing Akhtar of harboring bitterness and suggesting that his insult said more about him than it did about Pakistan. While some, like Faruqui, took a more measured tone, others, such as actor Ahsan Mohsin Ikram, called out Pakistani celebrities for previously welcoming Akhtar despite his controversial views.
Javed Akhtar Sparks Uproar with Anti-Pakistan Remark, Faces Backlash Over Contradictory Cultural StanceWhat made Akhtar’s comment particularly jarring was the contrast with the hospitality he had received in Pakistan. He was celebrated at literary events, praised for his poetic contributions, and treated with respect and admiration. These past honors now appear contradictory when viewed alongside his present-day rhetoric, leading many to reconsider their prior embrace of the Indian icon.
Akhtar’s Inflammatory Remark Deepens Indo-Pak Tensions, Casting Doubt On Cultural Unity Stance
Akhtar’s remarks also arrived at a sensitive moment. With India and Pakistan recently facing heightened tensions, such inflammatory statements risk exacerbating divisions. While Akhtar has previously advocated for cross-border cultural exchange, his latest comments appear to contradict that position and align more closely with nationalist sentiment in India, possibly undermining efforts at promoting peace and dialogue through art.
Ultimately, the controversy raises questions about Akhtar’s motivations. His mixed messages—alternating between calls for cultural unity and divisive declarations—suggest a possible desire to remain in the public eye. Whether his remarks stem from genuine frustration or a calculated move to generate headlines, the inconsistency casts doubt on the sincerity of his previous appeals for cross-border collaboration.