Javed Akhtar Defends Bollywood Silence on Operation Sindoor, Slams Selective Outrage: “Jaha khatra hai, vaha bol ke dikhao”

Mumbai: As India and Pakistan faced renewed tensions following Operation Sindoor, a social media storm erupted accusing Bollywood celebrities of staying silent during the critical moment. While the industry is often known for its nationalistic films and vocal stance on various social issues, netizens questioned the apparent lack of commentary on the military operation that followed the Pahalgam terror attack.

Amid growing criticism, veteran lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar offered a sharp rebuttal, defending the industry and calling out what he termed as “selective outrage.” Speaking to Lallantop in a recent interview, Akhtar said: “I do speak up. I’ve always spoken. Sometimes people don’t like what I say, sometimes they do. But I say what I believe is true.”

Akhtar emphasized that it is unreasonable to expect every celebrity to make public political statements, noting that many are focused on their craft or personal goals.
“If someone isn’t speaking, so what? The country is speaking. Many people are. Some are busy making more money or building their name. Let them,” he said.

Recounting a recent public event, Akhtar shared an incident where he was asked why Bollywood, despite making patriotic films, did not comment on Operation Sindoor. His reply was both poignant and confrontational: “I told them, if you believe in speaking up on every issue, stand up and tell me which government policy you’ve opposed in the last 15 years.”

Taking the debate further, Akhtar challenged critics to show courage where it matters most: “Anyone can speak on convenient or light topics. But those who accuse others must also show the courage to speak up on serious and uncomfortable matters. Jaha convenient hai bolna vaha aasaan hai, jaha khatra hai vaha bol ke dikhao.”

Known for his outspoken views, Akhtar had previously stirred headlines when he said at an event: “If my only two choices are between going to hell and Pakistan, I would choose hell.”

He had also condemned Pakistan’s propaganda claiming that “Kashmiris are Pakistanis at heart,” dismissing it as politically motivated and misleading.