Ali Zafar issues a statement following backlash for hosting a party for Javed Akhtar

Ali Zafar issues a statement following backlash for hosting a party for Javed Akhtar!

Javed Akhtar had been in Pakistan for a festival in memory of the celebrated Urdu poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz last week. And following the event, Ali Zafar hosted a party for the Indian celebrity at his residence in Lahore.

However, when the video clips of Javed Akhtar’s remarks at the Faiz Festival went viral, the singer turned actor is being widely criticised.

“I am a proud Pakistani and naturally no Pakistani would appreciate any statement against its country or people especially at an event meant to bring hearts closer than further,” Ali Zafar stated on Thursday evening in an Instagram post without naming the Indian poet-lyricist Javed 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,” the 42-year-old singer said.

Addressing criticism over his performance, video clips of which are widely circulated on social media platforms, Ali Zafar added he was not aware of what Javed Akhtar had said.

“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,” Ali Zafar added.

 

Ali Zafar is among the few prominent Pakistani artists who crossed over to the Indian film industry, featuring in several Bollywood films including “Mere Brother Ki Dulhan”, “Chashme Baddoor” and “Dear Zindagi”.

Ali is being criticised for hosting an event in honour of lyricist Javed Akhtar who hit the headlines with his comments on the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.