Pakistan and India once shared the same culture and literature before partition. Most importantly, their legendary literary figures were the same, due to the deep influence of the two nations with Urdu language and literature. Ace writers and poets like Iqbal, Ghalib, Saadat Hasan Manto, Faiz Ahmed Faiz have a strong following in both the countries. Now, the two nations often celebrate Urdu literature through the conferences that are attended by popular Indian and Pakistani artists. Recently, renowned Indian actress Nandita Das is in Lahore.
Manto famed Indian actress Nandita Das came to Lahore to attend Faiz Maila. The Indian actress expressed love for Lahore in her interview with renowned journalist Ambreen Fatima.
While Talking about Pakistan, Nandita Das said, “I am fond of Lahore and Pakistan. I am enjoying the weather and staying here in Lahore. Faiz Ahmed Faiz doesn’t belong to Pakistan only; he belongs to us as well. I am honoured to be invited here, I have multiple sessions here where I will pay tribute to Faiz Ahmed Faiz. People like Faiz and Manto are timeless. I did Manto because of my love for him. After the film, I wrote a book called Manto and I. I had come to Lahore before my book, I met Manto’s daughters too. I loved Sarmad Khoosat’s work as those who love Manto have the same attributes in them”.
Talking about visiting Lahore she said, “This is not my first time to visit Lahore, I first visited in 1996. I have been to Lahore multiple times and now after 8 years, I know it’s a long gap. I have been treated so well. I have been trying tasty food like Bhagare Bengan, Nihari and sweets”. Nandita Das further said that these borders are man made , artists are supposed to spread love. She also praised Lahori people’s hospitality. Here is the link to the video:
