Cinema – Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has expressed strong disappointment after Mumbai University withdrew his invitation to attend a student-focused literary programme at the last moment.
The respected performer, known for his decades-long contribution to Indian cinema and theatre, shared his concerns in an opinion piece published in a national daily. Shah described the university’s decision as both humiliating and misleading, claiming he was removed from the Jashn-e-Urdu event organised by the institution’s Urdu department on February 1 without proper explanation.
According to Shah, university authorities informed him late on January 31 that his attendance was no longer necessary. He stated that the short notice left him surprised, particularly because he had already committed to participating in the programme.
The situation, however, escalated further when Shah learned that attendees were reportedly told he had declined the invitation. The actor dismissed this claim and stated that he had never withdrawn from the event. He argued that presenting the cancellation in such a manner was unfair and damaged his reputation among students and organisers.
Shah emphasised that engaging with students has always been meaningful for him. Throughout his career spanning more than four decades, he has regularly interacted with young artists and learners, describing these sessions as deeply enriching. He noted that such experiences often provided him with valuable insights beyond what formal acting training could offer.
In his article, Shah suggested that his removal from the event might be connected to his public remarks on social and political matters. He referred to comments allegedly made by a senior university official who accused him of making statements critical of the country.
Responding to the allegation, Shah challenged the claim and asked for evidence supporting the assertion that he had ever spoken against India. He acknowledged that he has not openly supported certain political narratives and admitted to expressing criticism regarding government policies and leadership decisions.
The actor also voiced concern about what he described as diminishing space for independent expression. He referred to increasing monitoring of public discourse and expressed unease about the treatment of student activists and intellectual discussions within academic environments.
Shah’s remarks come amid ongoing conversations about freedom of expression in India’s cultural and academic institutions. In his writing, he drew parallels to themes of surveillance and restricted thought portrayed in classic dystopian literature. He stated that such developments create anxiety among artists and intellectuals who value open debate.
He further remarked that the social atmosphere he observes today differs from the environment in which he was raised. Shah argued that a culture of unquestioning approval may discourage meaningful dialogue, which he considers essential for creative and intellectual growth.
Meanwhile, the film and music industry recently witnessed similar discussions after composer AR Rahman spoke about his reduced involvement in Bollywood during an international media interview. Rahman suggested that creative decision-making within the industry has gradually shifted toward corporate influences rather than artistic priorities. He also hinted at the presence of divisive attitudes affecting professional opportunities.
The remarks triggered mixed reactions across the entertainment sector. Lyricist Javed Akhtar suggested that producers might hesitate to approach Rahman due to his stature and global reputation. On the other hand, filmmaker Subhash Ghai defended the composer and described the controversy as overstated.
As criticism and boycott campaigns emerged on social media, Rahman later addressed the issue through an online statement. He clarified that his comments were misinterpreted and reiterated his deep respect and affection for India. Rahman emphasised that his creative journey has always been inspired by the country’s diversity and cultural richness.
The incidents involving Shah and Rahman have revived discussion about artistic independence, institutional responsibility, and the relationship between cultural figures and public platforms. Observers note that such debates highlight the importance of transparency and mutual respect between artists, educational institutions, and the entertainment industry.
While opinions remain divided, the controversies have reinforced the ongoing conversation about maintaining a space where creative voices can engage freely with audiences and students alike.
