Nadia Khan Slams Javed Akhtar, Says He Should Be Welcomed with “Polished Shoes” if He Returns to Pakistan

Karachi – Pakistani actress and renowned television host Nadia Khan has launched a scathing attack on Indian poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar over his recent anti-Pakistan remarks, stating that if he ever returns to Pakistan, he should be “welcomed with polished shoes.”
In a viral social media clip, Nadia Khan strongly criticized Javed Akhtar for accusing Pakistan of supporting terrorism and for his comments defending the opposition to Pakistani artists in India. She questioned why he was even invited to the Faiz Festival in Lahore, given his stance.
“After the Pulwama incident, while many chose to remain silent, I stood firmly in defense of Pakistan,” she said, slamming not only Akhtar but also Pakistani artists who continued to show respect to him despite his accusations.
Referring to Akhtar’s controversial appearance at a musical gathering during the festival, Nadia expressed outrage: “He was treated with honor, seated among people who sat at his feet, even after blaming our country. That’s unacceptable.”
She emphasized that Pakistan’s hospitality should be reserved for those who are deserving. “We are known for our hospitality, but respect should only be given to those who earn it. If someone speaks ill of your country, they do not deserve honor,” she said.
Nadia further asserted that inviting individuals with hostile views back to Pakistan would be a grave mistake. “If Javed Akhtar ever comes to Pakistan again, it would be our fault. And if he does, he should be greeted with polished shoes,” she added.
Javed Akhtar faced backlash in 2023 as well, after making accusatory remarks about Pakistan during the Faiz Festival in Lahore. His recent interview has reignited the controversy, as he once again labeled cultural exchange between the two countries as “one-sided,” defending the Indian opposition to Pakistani artists.