Overview

• Javed Akhtar stated he would prefer 'hell over Pakistan' in response to extremists labeling him a 'kaafir' and 'jihadi' from Hindu and Muslim factions, respectively.
• The remarks were made during the launch of Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut's book 'Narkatla Swarg' in Mumbai, attended by political figures Uddhav Thackeray and Sharad Pawar.
• Akhtar emphasized his commitment to India, citing his personal journey and the support he receives despite facing backlash from both sides of the ideological spectrum.
• He reiterated his call for the Indian government to take substantive action against Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, urging measures beyond symbolic responses.
• The speech, delivered against the backdrop of heightened India–Pakistan tensions, has gone viral, drawing both praise and criticism for its bold critique of polarization and extremism.