Veteran Indian lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar has come under fire from Pakistani artists and social media users after making a controversial statement that he would prefer going to hell over visiting Pakistan.
Akhtar made the remark during a press conference in India, saying, “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 statement has drawn sharp criticism in Pakistan, especially given Akhtar’s previous visits to the country, where he was warmly welcomed at cultural events such as the Faiz Festival in Lahore.
Actress Mishi Khan responded on Instagram, saying, “Javed Akhtar has chosen the perfect place for himself. No one in Pakistan will invite him again.” Actor Imran Abbas also took to social media, remarking, “We gave him a business class welcome, though he wasn’t even worthy of an economy ticket.” Senior actress Hina Khawaja Bayat commented, “Wherever you go, you must be prepared for it, no?” while actor Asim Mehmood added, “May his heartfelt wish come true soon.” Former MPA Sharmila Farooqui called the remarks “deeply disrespectful.”
Many on social media have shared past footage of Akhtar’s visits to Pakistan, contrasting the hospitality he received with his latest comments. The backlash reflects growing frustration among Pakistanis, who now say Akhtar is no longer welcome in the country.
