Javed Akhtar On Pakistani Stars Wishing Him Dead: ‘If Their Prayers Worked, They Wouldn’t Be In This Condition’

Veteran lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar, made a statement last month that if ever forced to choose between Pakistan and hell, he would opt for hell. Akhtar has now responded to the backlash his remarks sparked in Pakistan.

Javed Akhtar further argued that Pakistan’s long-standing ideological justification for its existence doesn’t hold up when Indian Muslims like him succeed.

Source : PTI

Veteran lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar, known for his outspoken views on patriotism and faith, made a striking statement last month that if ever forced to choose between Pakistan and hell, he would opt for hell. The comment has since triggered strong reactions from several Pakistani actors, prompting Akhtar to issue a scathing response.

Speaking to The Lallantop, Akhtar didn’t shy away from responding to the backlash his remarks sparked in Pakistan. When asked about the uproar, he said the choice between hell and Pakistan was easy, adding wryly:

“Pakistan felt really bad by that. But I said you don’t issue me a visa anyway.”

His last known visit to Pakistan was two years ago when he attended an event in memory of renowned poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz.

Akhtar responds to Pakistani celebs' comments

The comment didn’t sit well with several Pakistani artists, including Imran Abbas, Mishi Khan, and Asim Mehmood. Mehmood even went so far as to wish for Akhtar’s demise. Akhtar, unfazed, responded with a touch of humour:

“If their prayers had that effect, then they wouldn’t be in the state they’re in today.”

'Your narrative fails with people like me'

Akhtar further argued that Pakistan’s long-standing ideological justification for its existence doesn’t hold up when Indian Muslims like him succeed.

“Your stability is in the claim that you can point to India’s state and say why you formed Pakistan in the first place. But if a Javed Akhtar earns respect and money, then it doesn’t suit you. How would Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, and Salman Khan being such big stars suit them either? Their existence is proving your basic argument wrong.”

He also commented that many Pakistani actors might be quietly regretting not having built their careers in India, where opportunities and global recognition are greater.

Akhtar on Bushra Ansari's comment

Pakistani actor Bushra Ansari had recently urged Akhtar to remain silent about Pakistan, much like veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah. She also claimed that Akhtar wouldn’t even find a house to rent in India today. Responding graciously, Akhtar praised her talent:

“She’s a very fine actor! If she was in India, she’d be a global name by now. I’ve seen a couple of her plays, so I know how good she is. This sadness of not making it like Indian actors did has stayed with them.”