Naseeruddin Shah criticized Bollywood’s silence on the Cockroach Janta Party protests, likening silent actors to a “dog with a bone” that cannot bark. He shared a video clip in which he supported the protesting students, saying, “Sab yad rakha jayega.” While many actors remained quiet, Shabana Azmi and Riteish Deshmukh expressed their support for the protests.
Naseeruddin Shah has raised questions as to why Bollywood actors have remained silent on the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party protests in New Delhi. In a recent interview, the veteran actor harshly criticized them, likening their silence to a dog holding a bone in its mouth.
Nasir al-Din Shah’s note “The Dog with the Bone”.
“They will do it when their conscience tells them to. There is a saying: A dog that has a bone in its mouth cannot bark. Once a bone falls out of its mouth, or its teeth break, it will bark,” Naseeruddin told The Wire, as quoted by the Indian Express.When also asked if he thought people took advantage of others’ silence by choosing to suppress their conscience, Shah replied: “Absolutely, yes.”
“But how long can they continue to do this? Only time will tell,” he added.
Video message of support from Naseeruddin Shah
Recently, Shah posted a video statement on social media, expressing his support for the protesters. “I would like to say two things to all of you. The first thing is that if an uneducated person leads this country, his heart will want the entire country to become as ignorant, incomprehensible and merciless as him. After completing two brilliant courses in acting from the National School of Drama (NSD) and the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), what I have learned most about the craft is from these children, whom I have tried to teach.”
The actor added, “I sympathize with them. I am emotional, and at the same time, my blood boils when I see how young people are being tortured by these goons who remind me of the agents wearing masks in America. Think about your children too. One day, you will also have to face the consequences of your actions.”Shah went on to urge the students not to lose hope, saying, “Many people are with you. Keep fighting. I have always expected a lot from the youth of the nation, and my faith in them is stronger now. I would also like to say to the government, sab yad rakha jayega (all things to remember).”
Other Bollywood actors who spoke
While a number of prominent Bollywood actors have chosen not to comment on the ongoing RJD protests, several other actors, including Shabana Azmi and Riteish Deshmukh, have come out in support.
