Naseeruddin Shah on why the Khans stay silent: "They have so much to lose; it's a question of their entire establishments getting harassed"

Naseeruddin Shah is one of those actors who is quite vocal about his opinions. He has often been targeted but that never deterred him from speaking his mind. Now, in a recent interview, he has given some explosive statements.

Talking to NDTV, Naseeruddin Shah opened up about how he felt that filmmakers and actors are now being given clean-chit and support from the government if they make 'propaganda films'. He said, "They are being encouraged by the government to make pro-government films, to make films lauding the efforts of our beloved leader. They also being financed, also promised a clean chit if they make movies which are propaganda, to put it bluntly. The kind of big-budget films that are coming. The big ones - cannot disguise the jingoistic agenda."

When asked about why he thinks the Khans never open up about major and controversial political issues, he said, "They (the Khans) are worried because of the harassment they will be subjected to. They have so much to lose. It will not be just financial harassment, it is not about losing an endorsement or two. It's a question of their entire establishments getting harassed." He added that anyone who dares to speak out is subjected to harassment. "It is not just Javed saab or me, it is anyone who speaks out against this right-wing mentality and it is growing on both sides."

Naseeruddin Shah has been a veteran actor who is a part of the industry for over half a century. He is also a three-time National Award winner.