“Such Insensitive…”: Pak Singer-Actor After Javed Akhtar’s 26/11 Remark
According to singer-actor Ali Zafar, who is facing criticism for appearing at a celebration for lyricist Javed Akhtar, who made headlines with his remarks regarding the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, Pakistan continues to suffer at the hands of terrorism. Insensitive remarks can hurt people’s feelings a great deal, he adds.
Mr. Akhtar said Pakistanis shouldn’t take offence when India brings up the 2008 terror incident while he was in Pakistan last week for a festival in honour of renowned Urdu poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz. He also went to a party where Mr. Zafar sang a few of his own tunes.
“I am a proud Pakistani and naturally no Pakistani would appreciate any statement against its country or people specially at an event meant to bring hearts closer than further,” Mr Zafar said on Thursday evening in an Instagram post without naming Mr Akhtar.
“We all know how much Pakistan has suffered and continues to suffer at the hands of terrorism and such insensitive and uncalled for remarks can deeply hurt the sentiments of so many people,” he added.
In response to criticism of his performance, which was captured on camera and widely shared on social media, Mr. Zafar said he was unaware of Mr. Akhtar’s remarks.
“I love you all and truly value your praise and criticism equally. But I always request one thing – verify facts before reaching any conclusion or judgment. I was not present at the Faiz Mela nor aware of what was said until the next day when I saw it on social media,” the 42-year-old singer said.
In answer to a query from a spectator at the Faiz festival, Mr. Akhtar made his comments. India has accused Pakistan of providing protection and immunity to the major conspirators and masterminds of the 26/11 strikes.
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