Veteran Indian poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar has ignited a firestorm on social media following his controversial remarks about Pakistan. In a recent interview, Akhtar stated, Pakistanis say I’ll go to hell and Indians call me a jihadi. They tell me to go to Pakistan. So if I have to choose between Pakistan and hell, I’ll choose hell.
The bold and abrasive comment instantly went viral, drawing backlash from thousands of Pakistanis — including top names in the entertainment industry and political circles — who expressed shock, anger, and disappointment over what they called a deeply hateful and insulting remark.
Mishi Khan Hits Back with Blunt Words
Actress Mishi Khan was among the first Pakistani celebrities to respond. She didn’t mince words and clapped back on social media with a stinging post:
You chose the right place because you are truly worthy of it. And yes, don’t ever try to come to Pakistan again. No one will call you now either. Also, take those along with you at whose feet you sat. And never come back.
Her post quickly garnered attention, with many supporting her stance and amplifying her message.
Imran Abbas Responds with Sarcasm
Pakistani heartthrob and actor Imran Abbas also chimed in, responding with pointed sarcasm. He wrote:
Even if he doesn’t choose hell, his plane will still land there. The only difference is the class. We gave him business class temporarily, but his actual place is below economy.
Abbas’ remarks referenced Javed Akhtar’s recent visit to Pakistan, where he was treated as a state guest and welcomed at multiple events, including literary festivals and cultural gatherings — a courtesy now being fiercely questioned by Pakistanis.
More Voices Join In: Zhalay and Sharmila Weigh In
The reaction didn’t stop there. Actress Zhalay Sarhadi and politician Sharmila Farooqi also expressed disappointment over Akhtar’s remarks. Sarhadi said, This is not just an insult to a country, it’s an insult to the love and respect he was given here.
Sharmila Farooqi echoed the sentiment, calling Javed Akhtar’s statement immoral, hateful, and hypocritical,adding that someone of his stature should know better than to mock the very people who once honored him.
Hypocrisy or Heat of the Moment?
Critics and commentators across Pakistan have been quick to point out the hypocrisy in Akhtar’s statement, especially considering his recent visit to Pakistan, during which he was celebrated at literary events and cultural forums. At the time, many Pakistani intellectuals and fans had praised his contributions to South Asian poetry and music.
Social media users posted clips from his Pakistan tour, with one user writing:
“This is the same Javed Akhtar who was praised here like royalty. Now he returns the favor by equating our country with hell?”
Others questioned why Pakistani institutions and event organizers had extended such generous hospitality to someone who harbors such resentment.
A Broader Divide
Javed Akhtar’s remarks come at a time when India-Pakistan relations are already tense, and the incident has once again highlighted the sensitivity around cross-border sentiments, especially involving influential public figures.
While Akhtar may have intended his comments as a form of sarcastic self-defense in light of criticism from both Indian and Pakistani sides, the delivery and tone struck a nerve with many — especially those who once held him in high regard.
For many Pakistanis, this episode is more than just a war of words. It’s a reminder of the fragility of cross-cultural respect and how quickly goodwill can be undone by careless statements, no matter how legendary the person may be.
The backlash against Javed Akhtar continues to grow, with thousands demanding an apology and urging Pakistani institutions to reconsider who they choose to honor in the future. Whether or not Akhtar issues a clarification or apology remains to be seen, but the damage — at least in the eyes of many Pakistanis — appears to be done.
As one social media user aptly summarized, Respect is a two-way street. You can’t walk down one side and throw stones at the other.
