Javed Akhtar Supports Mohammed Shami Against ‘Bigoted Idiots’ Over Roza Row: ‘Don’t Give A Damn’
Last Updated:
Javed Akhtar slams critics targeting Mohammed Shami for drinking water while fasting, calling them ‘bigoted idiots.’
Javed Akhtar defends Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami.
Veteran lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar has strongly defended Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami after the pacer faced online criticism for drinking water during a match while fasting for Ramadan.
During the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final between India and Australia in Dubai, Shami took a hydration break amid the intense heat—an essential move for any athlete playing under such conditions. However, some social media users attempted to stir controversy, questioning why he drank water while observing Roza.
Javed Akhtar swiftly responded to the backlash, shutting down critics on X (formerly Twitter). He wrote, “Shami saheb, don’t give a damn to those reactionary bigoted idiots who have any problem with your drinking water in a burning afternoon at a cricket field in Dubai. It is none of their business. You are one of the great Indian team that is making us all proud. My best wishes to you and our whole team.”
Shami saheb , don’t give a damn to those reactionary bigoted idiots who have any problem with your drinking water in a burning afternoon at a cricket field in Dubai . It is none of their business. You are one of the great Indian team that is making us all proud My best wishes…— Javed Akhtar (@Javedakhtarjadu) March 7, 2025
Shami, renowned for his clutch performances in ICC tournaments, has not reacted to the controversy, staying focused on India’s upcoming Champions Trophy final against New Zealand.
Akhtar, known for his outspoken stance against divisive narratives, continues to advocate for inclusivity. Recently, he also praised Virat Kohli’s stellar performance against Australia, calling him the “strongest pillar” of Indian cricket. However, a troll falsely accused him of fat-shaming captain Rohit Sharma, commenting, “If Virat is the strongest pillar, then who is Rohit Sharma? The heaviest pillar? Shame on you Javed saab for fat-shaming the Indian captain.”
Not one to hold back, Akhtar fired back with a scathing reply: “Shut up, you cockroach. I have great respect for Rohit Sharma and all the great Indian cricketers in Test history. What kind of a neech and pathetic liar you are to claim that I have ever said a word against the dignity of a great player like Rohit? Kabhi socho tum itnay ghatia aur ganday aadmi kyon ho.”
As always, Akhtar remains unapologetic in calling out trolls while supporting those unfairly targeted.