Javed Akhtar Weighs In on Fawad Khan Film Ban “It’s Always Been One-Way Traffic”
In an honest conversation with PTI, veteran screenwriter and lyricist Javed Akhtar countered the latest controversy regarding the Information and Broadcasting Ministry’s prohibition on Abir Gulaal, the imminent film of Pakistani actor Fawad Khan. Akhtar, known for his forthright truthful approach, provided an even-sided but provocative perspective on the big issue the involvement of Pakistani artistes in Indian entertainment.
“Two Answers, Both Logical”
Akhtar began his comments with a philosophical spin, positing that the question of whether or not Pakistani artistes should be permitted to work in India has “two answers, each equally logical.” His observation highlighted the intricacy of the debate, reflecting the gap between cultural friendship and country wide policy.
A History of Cultural Generosity
Reaching into the past, Akhtar brought to mind the severa legendary Pakistani artists who found grand love and adoration in India. From great singers such as Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Mehdi Hassan to literary titans such as Faiz Ahmad Faiz and Noor Jahan, he underscored India’s traditional way of life of accepting Genius from across the border.
“Faiz was treated like a guest countryman whenever he came to India during Vajpayee’s rule,” Akhtar observed, highlighting that the heat was extended no longer only by way of the citizens, but also by way of the Indian state.
“One-Way Traffic”: A Harsh Reality
But the conversation acquired an additional critical turn when Akhtar spoke of the imbalance. While Lata Mangeshkar has a huge name in Pakistan, she was by no means invited for a performance with the support of the Pakistani regime. “Pakistan’s massive poets wrote for her, and the people loved her but where was once the system’s reciprocity?” he asked.
Akhtar was previously lucid in delineating the people from the establishment. He mentioned the respect that Pakistanis entertained for Indian artists but regretted the consistent lack of institutional acknowledgment.
Culture, Politics, and the Fine Line
Akhtar’s criticism hit to the core of a persisting cultural struggle. Though human beings on both sides of the border can similarly enjoy common art and song, political decisions often take a precedence over such unity. His pronouncement is a powerful reminder of the elegant balance among artistic cooperation and geopolitical fact.
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