Shabana & I Sleep on Streets: Javed Akhtar Jokes on Pak Actress’ ‘They Don’t Get Flat on Rent’ Remark
The ongoing war of words between Pakistani actress Bushra Ansari and Indian lyricist Javed Akhtar has taken a new turn, with Akhtar firing back at Ansari’s recent comments about his ability to secure a rented flat in Mumbai. In an interview with The Lallantop, Akhtar responded to Ansari’s remarks, saying that he and his fellow actress Shabana Azmi are currently sleeping on the streets.
The controversy began when Ansari, in an interview with a Pakistani news outlet, said that Javed Akhtar should “stay quiet like Naseeruddin Shah” and that he “can’t even get a house on rent in Mumbai”. Her comments were met with widespread criticism from fans and colleagues alike, who felt that she was out of line to question Akhtar’s opinions and abilities.
In his response, Akhtar seemed to take the high road, saying that he was surprised by Ansari’s comments and that he didn’t understand why she felt the need to comment on his personal life. “Who’s she to decide when I should speak?” he asked. “Of course! Shabana and I are sleeping on the streets these days,” he joked, adding that he was having the time of his life.
It’s worth noting that Akhtar’s response was likely meant to be humorous and lighthearted, rather than a serious retort. By poking fun at himself and Shabana Azmi’s supposed homelessness, he was able to deflect attention away from Ansari’s original comments and turn the tables on her.
Despite the jokes, however, Akhtar’s words also served as a reminder of the harsh realities of finding housing in a city like Mumbai. As one of the most populous and expensive cities in the world, Mumbai is notoriously difficult to navigate, especially for those who are not well-connected or have limited financial resources.
Akhtar’s situation is likely not unique, as many artists and writers struggle to find affordable housing in the city. In fact, the issue of housing affordability has become a major concern in recent years, with many people forced to live in cramped and overcrowded conditions or even on the streets.
In this sense, Akhtar’s joke about sleeping on the streets takes on a new significance. Rather than simply being a lighthearted quip, it serves as a commentary on the difficulties faced by many people in Mumbai, including artists and writers who are struggling to make a living.
Despite the controversy surrounding his comments, Javed Akhtar remains one of the most respected and beloved figures in Indian cinema. With a career spanning over four decades, he has written lyrics for some of the most iconic films in Indian history, including the likes of “Sholay”, “Lagaan”, and “Dil Se”.
Akhtar’s response to Ansari’s comments was also notable for its graciousness and humility. Rather than lashing out or engaging in personal attacks, he chose to take the high road and poke fun at himself. This kind of behavior is all too rare in the world of entertainment, where personal attacks and insults are often the norm.
In the end, Javed Akhtar’s jokes about sleeping on the streets with Shabana Azmi serve as a reminder of the importance of humor and humility in the face of adversity. Even in the midst of controversy and conflict, Akhtar’s words offer a message of hope and positivity, reminding us that even the most difficult challenges can be overcome with a sense of humor and a willingness to laugh at ourselves.
