Veteran Indian lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar has sparked widespread outrage among Pakistani celebrities and social media users after a controversial statement in which he said he would prefer going to hell over coming to Pakistan.
The remark, made during a press conference in India, has been widely condemned in Pakistan, particularly given Akhtar's previous visits to the country where he attended several cultural events, including the Faiz Festival.
Responding to questions about criticisms he receives from both Indian and Pakistani audiences, Akhtar stated: “People from both sides abuse me. One side calls me an infidel and warns me of hell, and the other calls me a jihadi and tells me to go to Pakistan. If I have to choose between going to hell and going to Pakistan, I would prefer to go to hell.”
The comment has triggered a backlash in Pakistan’s entertainment industry, with actors and public figures accusing the lyricist of hypocrisy and disrespect.
Veteran actress Mishi Khan took to Instagram, stating, “Javed Akhtar has chosen the perfect place for himself. No one in Pakistan will invite him again. And he should take those people with him to hell who once sat at his feet and recited his praises.”
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Actor Imran Abbas, who has worked across borders, also responded critically. “Whether he chooses hell or not, he will go there regardless,” Abbas wrote. “The only difference will be that he’ll probably be in the economy section. We gave him a business class welcome, though he wasn’t even worthy of an economy ticket.”
Senior actress Hina Khawaja Bayat commented more subtly: “Wherever you go, you must be prepared for it, no?”
Actor Asim Mehmood offered a scathing prayer in response to Akhtar’s words, saying, “May his heartfelt wish come true soon.”
Former MPA and PPP leader Sharmila Farooqui also expressed her disapproval, calling the remarks “deeply disrespectful.”
Javed Akhtar has visited Pakistan multiple times in the past, notably attending the Faiz Festival in Lahore where he was honoured and warmly received. However, following increased hostilities between India and Pakistan in recent years, the poet has adopted a more critical tone, which many in Pakistan now view as politically motivated or opportunistic.
Social media users have also revisited past footage of Akhtar’s appearances in Pakistan, highlighting the contrast between the hospitality he received and his current statements.
While the lyricist remains a celebrated figure in Indian literary and cinematic circles, his recent comments have further strained his relationship with the Pakistani public, with many now declaring his presence in the country unwelcome.
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