Famous Indian poet and writer Javed Akhtar has upset many people in Pakistan, including celebs and public, after making statement that he would rather end up in hell than visit Pakistan again.
The remark came during press talk in India and quickly spread on social media, drawing backlash especially because Akhtar had visited Pakistan many times in past, even attending big cultural events like Faiz Festival in Lahore.
When answering question about hate he gets from both Indian and Pakistani sides, Akhtar said, “People abuse me from both places. One group calls me infidel and threatens hell, other calls me jihadi and tells me go to Pakistan. If I had to pick between hell or Pakistan, I’ll choose hell.”
His words didn’t go well with entertainment industry in Pakistan. Many actors and well-known personalities called him ungrateful and two-faced.
Actress Mishi Khan reacted strongly through her Instagram, writing, “He has selected his destination well. No one here will welcome him again. And he can take those fans with him who once praised him like mad.”
Actor Imran Abbas, who has worked in India too, also replied with sarcasm: “Hell or not, that’s where he’s going anyway. Only thing is, maybe he ends up in economy section. While here, we gave him business class respect he didn’t deserve.”
Senior actress Hina Khawaja Bayat gave her view in subtle words: “Wherever one goes, they should be ready for it.”
Actor Asim Mehmood made a harsh wish: “May his desire come true very soon.”
Sharmila Farooqi, PPP leader and ex-MPA, also shared her view, saying the statement was “highly insulting.”
Javed Akhtar had come to Pakistan several times before and was always warmly welcomed, especially at Faiz Festival. But as India-Pakistan tensions increased in recent years, his tone has become more harsh — something many now believe is due to political pressure or personal agenda.
People on social platforms also began posting old clips of his time in Pakistan, showing how much respect and love he received, which now feels completely opposite of his current attitude.
Although Akhtar is still a respected name in India’s film and literary world, this latest controversy seems to have completely damaged his standing in Pakistan, with many declaring he’s no longer welcome.
