Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated recently, not only politically but also among artists from both countries. Pakistani actress Bushra Ansari had recently claimed that Muslims in India face difficulties renting houses. This sparked a sharp response from Indian poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar.

Javed Akhtar’s Reply to Bushra Ansari

In a candid interview with Lallantop, Javed Akhtar responded to Bushra Ansari’s statements by saying, “Why should I keep quiet on her advice? She should first look at her own country. We may have problems in India, but I won’t remain silent if outsiders comment on them.”

Jokingly addressing the housing issue, he added, “Yes, Shabana and I are sleeping on the streets these days. What else should I say?”

Incident from the Past: Shabana Azmi’s Housing Issue

Javed also recalled a 25-year-old incident when his wife, actress Shabana Azmi, faced discrimination while trying to buy a flat. He explained that the real estate broker refused to sell her the property because she was Muslim. According to Javed, this bias stemmed from the fact that Shabana’s parents were forced to leave Sindh during the partition, which he partly attributes to Pakistanis.

Who is Bushra Ansari?

Bushra Ansari, 69, is a prominent Pakistani actress and comedian, who began her career in the 1970s with the TV show Fifty Fifty. She has appeared in popular Pakistani films such as Jawani Phir Nahi Aani and Ho Mann Jahaan.