Javed Akhtar in Pakistan: 26/11 attackers still roaming free in your country

Veteran screenwriter and poet Javed Akhtar, during a visit to Pakistan recently, commented on 26/11 terrorists “roaming free” in the country and the bitterness in the hearts of Indians.

Javed Akhtar visited Pakistan last week for a festival in Lahore in memory of Urdu poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz.

In a video that has gone viral on social media, the celebrated lyricist is seen responding to someone in the audience saying, "You have visited Pakistan so many times. When you go back do you tell your people that these are good people, they aren't just bombing us but also greeting us with garlands and love?"

Javed Akhtar replied, "We should not blame each other. It will solve nothing. The atmosphere is tense that should be doused. We are people from Mumbai, we have seen the attack on our city. They (attackers) did not come from Norway or Egypt. They are still roaming free in your country. So if there is anger in the Hindustani's heart, you can't complain."

He also criticised Pakistan for not inviting Indian artistes, the way India has welcomed Pakistani talent.

"When Faiz Sahab visited, he was received like a very important visitor. It was broadcast all over. We hosted big functions of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Mehdi Hasan. You (Pakistan) never organised a function for Lata Mangeshkar?" the poet said, drawing cheers and claps from the gathering.

The comments even drew praise from actor Kangana Ranaut, who, previously has been at odds with Akhtar and has even been in a legal tussle with him over a defamation case.

“When I listen to Javed Saab's poetry, I wonder how blessed he is by Goddess Saraswati. But there must be something pure in the person for God to bless them. Jai Hind @Javedakhtarjadu saab. Ghar mein ghuss ke maara (you beat them in their own backyard)," she tweeted.