Naseeruddin Shah has always been vocal about his stance on minorities in this country and he never minces his words. A few months ago, the actor stated that Muslim hatred has become fashionable. In an interview with the Indian Express, he remarked, “Muslim hating is fashionable these days, even among educated people. It’s what the ruling party has very cleverly tapped into this nerve. We talk about secularism, democracy, so why are you introducing religion into everything?”
However, his words did not sit well with many, and he was criticized for his comments. Actor Mukesh Khanna, popularly known for his role as Shaktimaan in the 90s, released a video lashing out at lashing out at Naseeruddin Shah.
“Ek behtarein actor itni ghatiya aur bachkani baat keh sakta hai mujhe Naseeruddin Shah ko dekh kar pata chala. Kehte hai Hindustan mein Muslim surakshit nahi.” Further stating examples of Sakshi, Shraddha and Ankita, Mukesh said, “Aap ek kattar ban chuke hai jo ek actor ko shobha nahi deta. Aisa hai toh shamil ho jaiye Love Jihad ki team ko promote karne wale gang mein.”
Mukesh Khanna further added, “Are you saying that only Hindus, who are 100 crores, are safe? You have turned into a fanatic, which doesn’t suit you as an actor. If this is the case, then join the gang promoting Love Jihad. You need to think, otherwise people will stop watching your films. God bless you!!!”
This is not the first time Naseeruddin Shah has made controversial statements. He faced backlash for a previous remark where he expressed concern for his children’s safety, stating, “I feel anxious for my children because tomorrow if a mob surrounds them and asks, ‘Are you a Hindu or a Muslim?’, they will have no answer.”
Shah also emphasized, “I want every right-thinking person to feel angry and not scared. This is our home. Who can dare to evict us from here?”
Following the airing of the interview, Naseeruddin Shah was labeled a traitor for his comments. However, there were also those who praised him for addressing the issue and speaking out about it. Anupam Kher criticized Shah, stating, “There is so much freedom in the country that you can abuse the army, badmouth the air chief, and pelt stones at the soldiers. How much more freedom do you need in a country?”