Veteran lyricist, screenwriter and poet Javed Akhtar After sharing his views on the former US president, he found himself responding to online criticism once again Donald Trump. Known for fearlessly voicing his views on social and political issues, Akhtar recently criticized Trump’s comments about Italian Prime Minister Giorgio Meloni, sparking a fresh debate on social media.On X, Javed Akhtar questioned Trump’s claim that Meloni “begged” him for a photo. Reacting strongly, he wrote, “Trump, who is known to lie day and night, has added one more to his endless list of lies.”
Javed Akhtar questions Trump’s comments on Giorgio Meloni
The acclaimed author went on to defend the Italian leader, arguing that a prominent global figure like Meloni had little reason to seek validation from Trump.“Firstly, why would a confident, high-profile, popular and empowered woman, the prime minister of a great country like Italy, which has taught Mr. Trump’s country so much culture, art, architecture and good cinema, beg for a picture with the world’s most unpopular man,” Akhtar wrote.He added that even if such a request was made, it would be inappropriate to boast publicly. “What would a cheap, vulgar, vulgar man demand at a press conference?”
Trolls bring religion into the conversation
While many users engaged with Akhtar’s political observations, one social media user tried to shift the discussion towards religion. In response to his post, the person referred to Akhtar’s perceived religious identity and wrote a comment aimed at what he described as the author’s “community”.The comment prompted an immediate response from Akhtar, who again clarified a position he has repeatedly maintained for decades.
Javed Akhtar says: ‘I am an atheist’
Barring religious persuasion, Akhtar reminds the user that he is not a member of any religion and identifies as an atheist. “If your tiny and undeveloped mind can grasp the well-known fact that I am an atheist (perhaps you are not familiar with the term. It means one who does not believe in any religion), then do not tell me about my Qawm (community). All my people, including you, are Indians,” he replied.The response quickly drew attention online, with many users praising the veteran writer for firmly reiterating his long-standing stance on religion and identity.The exchange did not end there. Another user advised Akhtar to stay away from political commentary altogether, suggesting that he should just focus on writing songs. “Be quiet and irrelevant. Politics is not your cup of tea. Keep writing songs,” the user commented.Akhtar responded quickly. “Go, fly a kite. What qualifies you to give me this unsolicited advice? Who are you and what have you done with your life?” He fired back.
Javed Akhtar’s career outside the cinema
Although ‘Shole’, ‘Diwar’, ‘Don’, ‘Mr. India’, ‘Zanjeer’, and ‘Lakshya’, Javed Akhtar’s contribution extends beyond the entertainment industry.D Padma Bhushan The recipient served as a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha between 2010 and 2016 and has been an active voice in public discourse. In 2020, he became the first Indian to receive the prestigious Richard Dawkins Award, recognizing his commitment to rationalism, secular values and critical thinking.His recent exchange on social media serves as yet another reminder that Akhtar continues to speak his mind regardless, whether the discussion revolves around politics, religion or public life.
