When I came back to India from Pakistan, I felt as if I had won third world war: Javed Akhtar

Entertainment Mar, 3 2023

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Indian playwright Javed Akhtar's recent statements are once again becoming trending topic on Twitter. Earlier this week, popular poet appeared at ABP India Summit 2023 for talk, where he discussed Pakistan and his controversial remarks at 7th Faiz Festival held in Lahore last month.

Taking chance, host, renowned author Chetan Bhagat asked Akhtar question, "Considering Pakistan's economy is in shambles and their reserves are empty, did you witness impact of rising inflation there?" In response to this, Khel screenwriter pointed out how Pakistan appears to have 'certain restrictions' that keep 'poverty' away from sight.

"Yes. Fact is that in India, poverty is right in front of us and are situated right next to billionaires. But I feel like in Pakistan certain restrictions keep their poverty-ridden people far away, where only needy ones are allowed to reside," he said. "I really don't know. You definitely don't see them on streets like in Mumbai. I have visited Pakistan three times, and it is surprising how they have managed to hide their slums. You won't even find homeless people on streets. I'm sure they have developed system to cater to them because it's apparent they do have poor people."

Akhtar recalled 7th Faiz Festival and his comment which many Pakistanis, including celebrities took as an offence. "In Q&A session, people were asking really friendly and warm questions and it was going pretty well until somebody highlighted how Indians only think of Pakistanis as terrorists and don't treat them well.

He then opined how he doesn't "think Pakistanis are terrorists," but being Mumbai resident he "Did feel strongly about that incident" and saw no harm in addressing his sentiments.

I stopped picking up calls due to reactions in media. I mean, what was so wrong with what I said anyways? It was expected of me to say this much at least. Should I have just stayed quiet?"

Silsila lyricist insisted all Pakistanis should not be criticised for country's actions. "We always view nation's citizens through its policies, but unfortunately, that's not true. There is huge segment of people in Pakistan that desire to keep good relationship with India and that's understandable.