Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has ignited a fresh political storm after alleging he was “disinvited” from an Urdu literary event at Mumbai University at the eleventh hour. In a sharp-tongued op-ed on February 5, 2026, Shah linked the incident to his long-standing criticism of the ruling government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whom he referred to as the “self-proclaimed Vishwaguru.”
The Incident: ‘Jashn-e-Urdu’ Cancellation
Shah was scheduled to perform poetry recitations and story readings at the Urdu Jalsa 2026 on February 1.
- The Late-Night Email: The actor claims he received an email from a coordinator on the night of January 31, stating the event was cancelled due to “unavoidable circumstances.”
- The ‘Lie’: Shah disputed claims by university officials that he had opted out himself. He alleged that organizers told the audience he refused to attend, which he called a “lie” and an attempt to “rub salt in the wound.”
- The University’s Stance: Confusion remains as the Head of the Urdu Department, Abdullah Imtiyaz, initially blamed the actor’s withdrawal but later distanced the university, claiming the co-organizers (Bazm-E-Ahbab Foundation) were responsible for coordinating with Shah.
Sharp Critique of the ‘Vishwaguru’
In his op-ed, Shah launched a scathing attack on the current political climate, expressing disappointment in the “direction in which we seem to be headed.”
- On PM Modi: Shah stated he remains unimpressed by the PM’s leadership over the last decade, citing “narcissism” and a lack of genuine progress.
- The ‘Thought Police’: He compared the current atmosphere to George Orwell’s 1984, alleging that “thought police,” “doublespeak,” and “surveillance” are being used to silence dissent.
- On Social Justice: The actor lamented the contrast between student activists held without trial and convicted criminals being granted bail, questioning, “Just how long can this hatred be sustained?”
A Pattern of Protest
This is not the first time Shah’s appearances have been derailed by political friction.
- Ajmer Lit Fest (2018): A keynote address was cancelled following right-wing protests over his comments on mob violence.
- Recent Support: Shah recently stood by a social media post supporting Diljit Dosanjh, emphasizing his commitment to “carrying the torch of truth” despite the backlash.