Nadia Khan Slams Javed Akhtar’s Pakistan Visit and Showbiz Silence on India’s Allegations

Renowned Pakistani television host and actress Nadia Khan has stirred controversy in the entertainment industry with her outspoken criticism of Indian lyricist Javed Akhtar’s 2023 visit to Pakistan and the silence of prominent Pakistani showbiz figures on India’s anti-Pakistan rhetoric. Speaking on her morning show, Rise and Shine, Khan condemned the warm reception Akhtar received at the Faiz Festival in Lahore, where he accused Pakistan of harboring terrorists, and called out stars like Mahira Khan, Saba Qamar, Mawra Hocane, and Humayun Saeed for their reticence amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions.

Khan expressed dismay over Akhtar’s invitation to the 2023 Faiz Festival, stating, “I don’t understand why Javed Akhtar was invited to the Faiz Mela. When he resorted to rudeness, a musical evening was arranged for him, and people sat at his feet. Honoring such people has become our weakness.” She warned that if Akhtar is invited again, she would lead a protest, adding with a sharp jab, “If India-Pakistan relations improve, Javed Akhtar still shouldn’t come. If he does, he’ll be welcomed with specially polished shoes.”

Her remarks come against the backdrop of heightened tensions following Indian missile strikes on Pakistani territory, which killed 24 civilians and injured 61, and Pakistan’s retaliation, including downing six Indian Air Force jets. Khan challenged the silence of Pakistani celebrities, asking, “This is the time to speak out. When Pakistan is attacked and accused, if you stay quiet, whose side are you on?” She criticized the industry’s tendency to prioritize diplomacy over national pride, questioning, “We give respect and love, but if those people humiliate us, are we respecting ourselves?”

Akhtar’s 2023 comments, accusing Pakistan of sheltering terrorists, sparked backlash from fans and artists like Bushra Ansari, who remarked, “Marne mein do ghante reh gaye, haya karein” (He’s close to death, have some shame). In a recent Indian interview, Akhtar called cultural exchanges between Pakistan and India “one-way traffic,” noting that Pakistani artists are barred from India while Indian artists are welcomed in Pakistan. Khan countered, “If we honor those who insult us, what does that say about our self-respect?”

The controversy has reignited debate on social media, with posts on X reflecting polarized views. Some praise Khan’s boldness, with one user stating, “Nadia Khan is saying what many Pakistanis feel—our artists must stand up for the nation.” Others argue that artists should avoid politics to preserve cultural ties. The discussion has also drawn comparisons to veteran actor Mustafa Qureshi’s recent remarks, warning India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the Pakistan Army’s strength.

Khan’s outspoken stance has put pressure on Pakistani showbiz to clarify its position, especially as the nation grapples with India’s military actions and allegations. Whether her call to action will inspire other artists or deepen divisions remains to be seen, but it has undeniably sparked a broader conversation about national loyalty and the role of celebrities in times of crisis.