Veteran lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar has reignited the conversation about women’s autonomy and social norms with his candid remarks on face-covering practices like the burqa. Speaking at the SOA Literary Festival 2025 in Bhubaneswar on December 18, 2025, Akhtar posed a direct challenge: “Why should a woman be ashamed of her face?” He linked the expectation for women to cover their faces to deep-rooted peer pressure and social conditioning rather than pure personal choice.
Social Conditioning Over Individual Choice
Akhtar’s comments arose during an interactive session where a young attendee referenced his earlier observations about women in his family not wearing burqas. He argued that such practices often stem from external validation—family, community, or societal approval—making true freedom elusive. “This is peer pressure,” he stated bluntly, questioning whether any woman would choose to hide her face without these influences. The remark, delivered at a session organized by the Indian Performing Rights Society and supported by the Ministry of Culture, sparked immediate reflection and debate on women’s dignity and the blurred line between tradition and coercion.
A Consistent Voice for Empowerment
Akhtar, known for his progressive stance, has long advocated for gender equality. His festival address aligns with past statements opposing face-covering norms, emphasizing empowerment over imposition. While respecting cultural contexts, he highlighted how social logic can hinder women’s progress, urging a reevaluation of practices that imply shame in visibility.
Reactions: Debate and Dialogue
The comments quickly went viral, with social media divided—some applauding his courage in addressing “uncomfortable truths,” others debating choice versus pressure. Supporters praised the nuance: “Akhtar ji raising questions society avoids—respect!” The discussion underscores ongoing conversations on women’s rights in India.
A Call for Reflection
Javed Akhtar’s words aren’t controversy—they’re catalysts. As he questions the shame behind the veil, it thunders: Can norms evolve with empathy? His thoughtful probe affirms the need for dialogue in society’s ceaseless search for equality.
-By Manoj H