Javed Akhtar Slams Bollywood’s Silence on Operation Sindoor
Veteran lyricist and writer Javed Akhtar has taken a sharp dig at the Indian film industry’s silence on Operation Sindoor, calling out the apparent lack of engagement with national issues. Speaking candidly in a recent interview, Akhtar noted that many in the industry are simply apolitical or too focused on personal gain. “Some people are just busy with their own work… If they’re not speaking, so be it. What’s the big deal? Some people are speaking. Many are. Others are chasing different goals… They want to earn more money or fame. Let them,” he said, subtly pointing to the profit-driven mindset that often sidelines national interest or social responsibility within the entertainment community.
‘Bollywood’ is Anti-National, Says Akhtar
Akhtar didn’t hold back in critiquing the term ‘Bollywood’ itself, labelling it as anti-national. He asserted that Indian cinema has a global identity of its own and should not be defined in comparison to Hollywood. “Do we call Indian music ‘Busic’ because it comes from Western ‘music’? So why Bollywood?” he asked rhetorically. Stressing the importance of cultural independence, Akhtar highlighted that Indian films are now being released in more than 130 countries, and the industry should take pride in its own name and voice rather than lean on Western associations.
Speaking Out Comes with Risks, Not Just Tweets
In response to being asked why more celebrities were not commenting on Operation Sindoor, Akhtar flipped the question back at the critic. He challenged the individual, reportedly a businessman, asking if he had ever spoken up against government wrongdoing. Akhtar’s point was clear: those who criticize silence must also practice courage. “One should only expect others to speak when they themselves do. It’s easy to speak when it’s convenient… try speaking when there’s risk involved,” he added, underscoring the real-world consequences artists and public figures can face for taking political positions in today’s polarized climate.
