Javed Akhtar speaks on Pakistani artists in India: 'Both sides have valid points'
In a recent statement, Javed Akhtar shared his views on whether Pakistani artists should be allowed to perform in India. Akhtar raised two logical points in his response, both of which highlight the complex relationship between India and Pakistan. He said, "The first question should be whether we should allow the Pakistani artists here. There are two answers, both of them are equally logical."
Akhtar pointed out that India has always welcomed Pakistani artists, citing figures like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Ghulam Ali, and Noor Jahan, who received warm receptions in the country. He also mentioned the late poet Faiz Ahmad Faiz, who was treated with the utmost respect during his visit to India under the AB Vajpayee regime. However, Akhtar expressed concern that this warmth has not been reciprocated, saying, "I am afraid, this has never been reciprocated, I mean, I have no complain with the people of Pakistan."
Akhtar also noted the situation regarding Lata Mangeshkar, who, despite being loved by both Indian and Pakistani audiences, never performed in Pakistan due to systemic barriers. He stated, "Big poets of Pakistan has written for the songs of Lata Mangeshkar. She was hands down most popular artist in India and Pakistan in the 60's and 70's, but why there was not a single performance of Lata Mangeshkar in Pakistan?"
On the other hand, Akhtar also acknowledged the potential consequences of blocking Pakistani artists, stating, "If we block Pakistani artists, who are we pleasing in Pakistan? The Army and the fundamentalist, this is what they want? They want distance, it suits them." He concluded by stating that both sides have valid arguments, but at this moment, his position is clear: "I would say no."