Javed Akhtar, a veteran lyricist and writer, has finally responded to singer Lucky Ali`s recent comments about him, after the latter took a jab on social media over an old video in which the veteran made statements regarding Hindu-Muslim dynamics.
Javed Akhtar reacts to Lucky Ali`s remark
In an interview with India Today, Javed Akhtar responded to the jibe with his customary wit and composure, as well as a measured take on tolerance and various perspectives.
When asked about Lucky Ali calling him “ugly,” Javed Akhtar stated he didn`t take the statement personally, but he made it obvious that he disagreed with the abuse.
“Now, I must accept Lucky Ali`s advice with a grain of salt. I should accept it. Although I disagree with it. But, in any case, I`m glad to know he has an opinion. “That`s wonderful,” he remarked.
Lucky Ali replied to an unearthed clip from an old event in which Javed Akhtar apparently made statements against Hindu-Muslim ties, prompting the lyricist to respond. Lucky Ali had quoted a post criticising the lyricist and added, “Don`t become like Javed Akhtar, never original and ugly as f**k.”
Following the uproar, Lucky Ali explained his views, referring to the original comment as a “mistaken communique.” He apologised: “What I meant was that arrogance is ugly… it was a mistaken communique on my part… monsters may have feelings too and I apologise if I hurt anyone`s monstrosity.”
The clarification had a sarcastic tone, and the performer appeared to maintain his initial stance.
Lucky Ali had apologised to Javed Akhtar
In response to the singer`s mocking apologies, Javed Akhtar thought on the value of tolerance, particularly when dealing with delicate topics such as religion.
He further remarked, “Let him decide what he meant and what he wants. If you are tolerant, it`s good. If you are intolerant in certain matters, particularly those which are sensitive, like religious matters, then it`s not good. You have to be a tolerant person. You should… I mean, if you want to have one opinion, and you want your opinion to be heard, then you should be able to take other people`s opinions you may not agree with.”