Renowned lyricist and writer Javed Akhtar, known for scripting iconic films like 'Sholay', 'Deewar', and 'Zanjeer', was recently seen passionately defending his legacy on social media.
On social media platform X, a user began to troll Javed over a humorous post, challenging his father's dedication to the nation. Javed Akhtar spared no effort in responding with fervor.
Javed Akhtar's Witty Take on the US Election
Joking about the American election, Javed wrote, 'I will always be a proud citizen of India until my last breath, but there's a common factor between Joe Biden and me. Our chances of becoming the next US president are equally nil.'
Source: aajtak
However, the atmosphere soured when a user targeted Javed's religion, claiming his father played a significant role in the creation of Pakistan and insultingly calling Javed a 'traitor's son'.
Javed Akhtar Gives a Blistering Reply
Calling this user 'completely ignorant or outright foolish,' Javed reminded them of his family's heritage. He said, 'I'm not sure if you're utterly unaware or just foolish. Since 1857, my family has been part of the freedom struggle, suffered imprisonment and exile to Kala Pani, while your ancestors were likely polishing British officers' boots.'
Source: aajtak
But the exchange didn't end there. Joining the conversation, another user questioned which of Javed’s ancestors had been exiled to Kala Pani. Javed responded, 'My great-grandfather Fazle Haq Khairabadi was exiled to Andaman in 1859 aboard the ship Fire Queen, where he authored the book 'Baghi Hindustan'. It's now being translated into English. His grave is in Andaman – feel free to Google him.'
Notably, Javed Akhtar’s father, Jan Nisar Akhtar, was a respected lyricist and Urdu poet in the Hindi film industry and also part of the Progressive Writers' Movement. Javed’s great-grandfather, Fazle Haq, was sentenced to life imprisonment in the Andaman Islands, where he spent 22 months.
