Actor Naseeruddin Shah says, “This is not country I grew up in !”

Case of Mumbai University withdrawing an event invitation at the last moment

Mumbai — The Urdu Department of Mumbai University had organised a program titled ‘Jashn-e-Urdu’ on 1 February 2026. Hindi film actor Naseeruddin Shah had been invited to this program; however, late on the night of 31 January 2026, the invitation was withdrawn. Those present at the event were informed that Shah had declined to attend.

“The country I grew up in is not this one,” says Naseeruddin Shah after the Jashn-e-Urdu event organised by the Urdu department of Mumbai University revoked his invite. 🎭

From his "love" for the Mughals to provocative statements about 200 million people fighting back, the… pic.twitter.com/Gc5KpE6bXX

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) February 5, 2026

Regarding this, Shah said, “The country in which I grew up and the country I learned to love — this is not that country.”

He further said, “What happened is insulting and unjust. I never refused to attend the program. In my four-decade-long career, I have often met and taught students. Interacting with students has been one of the most joyful experiences of my life. That being the case, why would I refuse an invitation ? The real reason for withdrawing the invitation may be my political views. A senior official has alleged that I make anti-national statements. In reality, they should point out even a single anti-national statement of mine.”

Editorial Perspectives

Indians are aware of Naseeruddin Shah’s affection for Pakistan or his fondness for the Mughals ! The public understands the mindset of those with extremist ideologies.

“There are 200 million Muslims in the country. You (Hindus) cannot eliminate them in a single night. If Muslims are attacked, we will fight against it,” actor Naseeruddin Shah had stated a few years ago. Hindus have not forgotten this statement of his and he should keep that in mind !