Javed Akhtar on the Firing Line: "I Get Hate Mail From Both Sides" After Kolkata Event Snub

In a candid revelation that underscores the deepening polarization in public discourse, veteran lyricist and writer Javed Akhtar has spoken out about the recent cancellation of his event by the West Bengal Urdu Academy in Kolkata. More strikingly, he revealed the relentless barrage of hate mail he endures, lamenting, "I get hate mail from both sides."

Akhtar, known for his forthright opinions and unyielding stance, explained that the vitriolic messages originate from diverse, often opposing, factions.

"Those who think I am anti-Hindu, they send hate mail, and those who think I am pro-Modi, they also send hate mail," he shared, painting a vivid picture of the tightrope walk he performs in the public eye. He succinctly termed this predicament as "the fate of those who walk on the middle path."

The controversy stems from the West Bengal Urdu Academy's decision to call off an event where Akhtar was slated to speak.

Reports suggest that a segment of Urdu poets and writers had voiced strong objections to his participation, primarily due to his outspoken views on various socio-political issues, including his support for the Uniform Civil Code. This particular stance had previously drawn considerable criticism from a section of the Muslim community.

Confirming the event's cancellation, Akhtar maintained his characteristic composure.

"Yes, they cancelled it. What else can they do? They can only cancel the event. I will speak my mind. If someone does not like it, then what can I do?" he asserted, reaffirming his commitment to intellectual honesty over popular appeasement.

He further elaborated on his political identity, asserting that he belongs neither to the extreme left nor the far right.

"I am neither Left nor Right. I am for the Constitution and democracy," Akhtar declared. He underscored his consistent record of opposing communalism, irrespective of its origin, stating, "I have been opposing communalism whether it is Hindu communalism or Muslim communalism." This unwavering position, he believes, is what places him squarely in the crosshairs of both extremist camps.

Akhtar's remarks highlight the increasingly difficult position of public figures who choose to articulate nuanced or centrist views in an environment where strict ideological alignment is often demanded.

His experience serves as a poignant reminder of the personal cost of independent thought in a hyper-partisan world, where the "middle path" often feels like the most treacherous one.