Javed Akhtar Opens Up About Bollywood's Silence On Operation Sindoor

While some Bollywood celebs have spoken about the India’s recent Operation Sindoor—targeting Pakistan-based terror camps, many have chosen to remain silent on it. Veteran lyricist and screenwriter, Javed Akhtar, who is vocal about his opinions, have addressed why the silence exists. 

Javed Akhtar on Bollywood celebs not speaking about Operation Sindoor

In a conversation with The Lallantop, Javed Akhtar said that people are apolitical and they don't feel it is necessary to speak.

He said he didn’t stay silent about Operation Sindoor and what he says is what he believes is the truth, and sometimes people may like it and sometimes they may not.

He added, "Look, when I was young, even though I came from a politically conscious and very vocal family. But when my films were becoming hits one after another, I had no idea what was going on in politics. I probably didn’t even read the newspaper. So that happens."

Akhtar also said that some people are busy with their own work and if they are not speaking, it's not a big deal. "Some people are speaking. Many are. Others are chasing different goals. They want to earn more money or fame. Let them. It’s not necessary for everyone to speak, or for us to ask why they didn’t," he added.

The octogenarian also shared about a conversation he had with a well-known businessman who asked him about Bollywood's silence on Operation Sindoor, where many nationalist films are made.

His response to the businessman was, "First of all, the term ‘Bollywood’ itself is an anti-national name. You call the Indian film industry ‘Bollywood’? In the world, if there’s any industry that can compete with Hollywood, it’s the Indian film industry. It has nearly wiped out European cinema. Our films are released in 136–137 countries on average and you call it Bollywood?"

Akhtar also opened up about the hypocrisy of people. "And if you like to say that a person should speak on every issue - then stand up and tell me, in the past 15 years, you’re a businessman, have you ever spoken out against a government policy, taxation, or a rule you didn’t like? Then why are you saying others don’t speak? Do you? The moment you feel even a little afraid, you go silent. 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 said.