Mumbai, May 17 -- Lyricist Javed Akhtar attended the launch of Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut's book Narkatla Swarg (Heaven in the Swamp) in Mumbai on Saturday.

The event was attended by several political leaders, including Shiv Sena (UBT) Chief Uddhav Thackeray and (NCP-SCP) chief Sharad Pawar.

While addressing the audience, Akhtar shared how, over the years, he has faced backlash from people due to his outspoken nature.

"People from both sides abuse me. It's not one-sided. I would be very ungrateful if I don't admit that there are people who also appreciate me. Many support me, praise me, and encourage me," Akhtar said.

"But this is also true: the extremists from this side also abuse me, and the extremists from that side also abuse....