At a book launch in Mumbai that brought together some of the country’s most influential political voices, celebrated lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar once again proved why he remains one of India’s most outspoken public intellectuals. Speaking at the release of ‘Narkatla Swarg’ (Heaven in the Swamp), written by Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut, Akhtar made a striking comment that’s now rippling across political and cultural circles:
“Toh agar mere paas sirf choice Pakistan aur nark (hell) ki hai, toh main nark hi jaana pasand karunga…”
(If the only choice I’m given is between Pakistan and hell, I would rather go to hell.)
A Voice Often Caught in the Crossfire
Javed Akhtar, known for his sharp opinions on politics, religion, and civil liberties, spoke candidly about being criticized from both extremes of the ideological spectrum.
“The extremists on this side call me a jihadi and say I should go to Pakistan. The extremists on the other side call me a kaafir and say I will go to hell. I must be doing something right if I’m upsetting both sides equally,” he remarked.
He acknowledged the support he receives from a large section of society but stressed that abuse from polarized voices has become routine, reflecting a larger commentary on India’s shrinking space for moderate or nuanced opinions.
The Book Behind the Moment
The event marked the launch of Sanjay Raut’s ‘Narkatla Swarg’, a political memoir chronicling his experiences during turbulent times in Indian politics. The occasion brought together prominent leaders, including Uddhav Thackeray, Sharad Pawar, and Saket Gokhale, creating a stage that blended art, politics, and ideology.
Why This Moment Matters
Akhtar’s comments may be provocative, but they spotlight a deeper issue—how public figures are boxed into binary choices, and how dissent or independent thinking is often met with hostility rather than dialogue. His quip—equal parts satire and lament—has reignited discussions around freedom of expression, identity politics, and the state of ideological discourse in India.
