Indian poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar stated that Pakistani artists should not be allowed to perform or collaborate in India due to the current political tensions in an interview after the Pahalgam attack.
He argued that India consistently showed goodwill toward Pakistani artists, but the gesture was never reciprocated equally. Akhtar believes that the imbalance is evident in the cultural exchanges that occurred over the years.
He highlighted how figures like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Ghulam Ali, and Faiz Ahmad Faiz were warmly embraced in India. He stated, “The first question should be whether we should allow the Pakistani artists here.
There are two answers, both of which are equally logical. It has been a one-way traffic. Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Ghulam Ali, and Noor Jahan came to India, and we gave them a great reception… Faiz Ahmad Faiz, a renowned poet of the subcontinent, resided in Pakistan.
When he came to India during the AB Vajpayee regime, he was treated like a state head, the kind of respect given by the government.”
Akhtar questioned why similar opportunities were not extended to Indian icons like Lata Mangeshkar in Pakistan. Blaming systemic barriers in Pakistan for the lack of reciprocity, he clarified he harboured no ill will toward its people.
Akhtar further defined the cultural relationship as a “One-way traffic,” citing India’s openness to Pakistani talent. He warned that continued collaborations might stir the extremists in Pakistan who benefit from division.
Although he previously visited Pakistan and received a warm welcome, Akhtar maintained a critical view of the country’s leadership and policies. He also openly criticised Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah.