Islamabad, 1 May, 2025: Mansha Pasha criticises the continued idolisation of Indian celebrities in Pakistan, urging her compatriots to reassess their self-worth following controversial remarks by renowned Indian poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar.
Her comments have stirred debate across social media, with many echoing her concerns over Pakistanis’ perceived lack of self-respect in cultural exchanges.
The actor voiced her disapproval through a series of Instagram posts on Monday, responding to resurfaced videos from Akhtar’s previous visit to Lahore in 2023.
In those clips, several Pakistani attendees at a private event were seen displaying what Pasha described as “excessive reverence,” even after Akhtar had openly criticised Pakistan during a literary festival.
She questioned why, despite his history of making disparaging remarks, Akhtar was not only invited but also celebrated during his time in Pakistan.
Referring to the event, reportedly hosted by singer Ali Zafar, she noted that the real problem stemmed from within.
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“The truth is, we must hold ourselves responsible. This kind of behaviour reflects a deeper issue the absence of self-respect,” she remarked.
The renewed backlash comes after Akhtar, in a recent interview with India’s Press Trust, suggested that cultural exchange between India and Pakistan was largely one-sided.
While Pakistani icons such as Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Ghulam Ali have long performed in India, he argued that similar opportunities have not been extended to Indian artists in Pakistan. He attributed this to institutional restrictions and broader political tensions.
Akhtar further claimed that Pakistani artists working in India often unintentionally serve the interests of elements in Pakistan’s power structure, portraying Indian freedom and cultural vibrancy as a threat to those seeking to maintain control at home.
The timing of his remarks, which followed the deadly April 22 attack in Indian-administered Kashmir — blamed by India on Pakistan further inflamed sentiments.
Mansha Pasha criticises the tendency among Pakistani elites to ignore such inflammatory statements, particularly when they come from celebrated Indian figures.
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Her comments underscore a broader frustration within Pakistan’s creative circles, where many feel admiration for Indian talent is not equally reciprocated.
In calling for self-reflection, Pasha has reignited conversation around cultural identity, national pride, and the limits of hospitality in strained diplomatic times.
Her stance may signal a shift in how Pakistani artists approach regional engagement in the future.
