Acclaimed Indian poet and writer Javed Akhtar’s statement at the Faiz Festival in Lahore has caused uproar on social media, with many Pakistani celebrities condemning his comments.
Javed Akhtar known to subcontinent as a literary figure, accused Pakistan of harboring terrorists at Faiz Festival.
But, forgot that Kulbhushan wasn’t from Norway & wasn’t promoting peace in Pak. It would have been better if he talked about poetry/literature instead of Politics. pic.twitter.com/egvuMdy6Lg— Khurram Zubair (@Khurram__z) February 21, 2023
In a video that went viral, Akhtar accused Pakistan of allowing the attackers of the Mumbai attacks to “roam free” in the country. The statement triggered a wave of criticism from Pakistani celebrities, who took to social media to voice their objections.
The Faiz Festival, which took place from February 17 to 19, saw many celebrities share their excitement at being honoured by Akhtar’s presence.
However, the jubilations turned sour when the video of Akhtar’s speech was shared widely on social media. In the video, Akhtar can be seen accusing Pakistan of allowing the Mumbai attackers to roam free in the country.
Inko gujrat main musalmanoon kai qatil ka tu pata hai lakin yeh khamosh Hain..or ab Yeh sahab Pakistan main 26/11 kai mulzimoon ko dhoond rahay Hain ..#faizmela isko visa kis nai dia? @OfficialDGISPR @Shahidmasooddr @MirMAKOfficial pic.twitter.com/ekmSblS5wY
— Shaan Shahid (@mshaanshahid) February 21, 2023
Pakistani megastar Shaan Shahid was one of the first to condemn Akhtar’s statement, taking to Twitter to voice his objections. He criticized Akhtar’s silence on the murders in Gujarat, despite knowing who the culprit was, and questioned why he was given a visa to attend the festival.
Saboor Aly reacts to Javed Akhtar’s remarks at the Faiz Festival with a powerful message for the nation, as she demands all to set professional boundaries in order to avoid similar situations in the future. Swipe to read her take 👉🏻 #SaboorAly #JavedAkhtar pic.twitter.com/cnwxIk5M90
— Galaxy Lollywood (@galaxylollywood) February 22, 2023
Other celebrities, such as Saboor Aly, also spoke out against Akhtar’s remarks. Aly referred to the Indian pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, who was safely returned to India after being captured by Pakistani forces.
She emphasized that Pakistan had sent Varthaman back safely after offering him a cup of tea, highlighting the country’s hospitality.
However, some also criticized the audience at the festival for applauding Akhtar’s comments. A Twitter user expressed disappointment with the audience, questioning who should be held accountable for disgracing the Faiz Festival: the hosts, the guest, or the audience.
The controversy surrounding Akhtar’s statement highlights the tense relationship between India and Pakistan, which has been marred by conflicts and political tensions for decades.
While the Faiz Festival aims to promote cultural exchange and understanding between the two countries, the incident serves as a reminder of the underlying tensions that exist between them.