Veteran Indian poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar has ignited widespread anger among Pakistani celebrities and social media users after making a controversial statement that he would rather go to hell than visit Pakistan.
Akhtar made the remark during a press conference in India, drawing strong criticism in Pakistan, especially since he had previously visited the country several times for cultural events, including the Faiz Festival.
Read more: Bushra Ansari Blasts Javed Akhtar Over Anti-Pakistan Remarks
When asked about the criticism he faces from audiences on both sides, Akhtar said, “People from both countries insult me. One side calls me an infidel and threatens me with hell, while the other calls me a jihadi and tells me to go to Pakistan. If I must choose between going to hell or going to Pakistan, I’d choose hell.”
This statement provoked a sharp backlash in Pakistan’s entertainment community, with actors and public figures accusing Akhtar of hypocrisy and disrespect.
Veteran actress Mishi Khan expressed her disappointment on Instagram, saying, “Javed Akhtar has picked the right place for himself. No one in Pakistan will welcome him anymore. He should take along those who once praised him but now don’t deserve his respect.”
Actor Imran Abbas, who has worked across the border, also criticized him, stating, “Whether he ends up in hell or not, he will go there eventually. The only difference is he might be in the economy section, unlike the business-class welcome we gave him, which he didn’t even deserve.”
Senior actress Hina Khawaja Bayat responded with a more measured comment: “Wherever you go, you have to be ready for the consequences, right?”
Actor Asim Mehmood prayed sharply, “May his wish come true soon.”
Former MPA and PPP politician Sharmila Farooqui condemned the remarks, calling them “highly disrespectful.”
Akhtar had visited Pakistan multiple times before, notably attending the Faiz Festival in Lahore where he was warmly welcomed. However, in recent years, as tensions between India and Pakistan have increased, his tone has grown more critical, which many in Pakistan see as politically motivated or opportunistic.
Pakistani social media users have resurfaced past videos of Akhtar’s visits, highlighting the stark contrast between the hospitality he once received and his current harsh statements.
Although Javed Akhtar remains a respected figure in Indian literature and film, his recent comments have further damaged his image in Pakistan, with many now declaring that he is no longer welcome there.
