'Nark Jaana Pasand Karunga': Javed Akhtar Says He Would Rather Go To Hell Than Pakistan At Mumbai Event

Veteran lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar attended the launch of Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut's book 'Narkatla Swarg' in Mumbai on Saturday, and while at it, he made a rather bold statement about choosing "hell over Pakistan". He stated that while people from both the countries abuse him, he would still stand by India.

A video clip of his speech at the event is now splashed all over the internet, and Akhtar is being praised for his words. "People from both sides (India and Pakistan) abuse me. It's not one-sided. I would be very ungrateful if I don't admit that there are people who also appreciate me. Many support me, praise me, and encourage me," he said.

"The extremists from this side also abuse me, and the extremists from that side also abuse. This is the reality. If even one of them stops abusing, I get worried about what mistake I am making," he added.

He went on to say, "One says I am a kaafir and will go to hell. The other says I am a jihadi and should go to Pakistan. Toh agar mere paas sirf choice Pakistan aur jahannum yani nark ki hain toh main nark hi jaana pasand karunga."

His speech, which came in the midst of the tensions between India and Pakistan post Operation Sindoor, was met with a thunderous applause from the audience.

Post the ghastly terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, Akhtar was at the receiving end of severe hate from Pakistan for urging the Indian government to take action against the neighbouring country. "This has happened not just once but several times. I request that the Central Government take immediate steps. A few crackers on the border will not work. Take a solid step now," he had said.

He also supported the government's decision to ban Pakistani artists from working in India.