Don't understand why artists are returning awards: Zubin Mehta

31 October,2015 07:47 AM IST |   |  Agencies

Mumbai-born music maestro Zubin Mehta said he failed to understand why artists, writers, filmmakers and other intellectuals were returning their state awards, while suggesting that those protesting against the government should engage in dialogue with it.

Zubin Mehta


Mumbai-born music maestro Zubin Mehta (in pic) said he failed to understand why artists, writers, filmmakers and other intellectuals were returning their state awards, while suggesting that those protesting against the government should engage in dialogue with it.

Also read: Anupam Kher slams filmmakers for returning National Award


Zubin Mehta

Mehta said, "Intellectuals are going ahead and giving back awards whether they are writers or filmmakers. They must feel very strongly and I respect them for what they are doing. On the other hand, I read what the government ministers are saying. I think both parties should meet together and talk about their grievances."

Referring to the slew of protests by writers, artists, filmmakers, historians, academics and scholars against the rising intolerance in the country, the world-renowned musician said he came to know about it only through news reports. Mehta said "I don't live here and I have not been through this entire process day by day. I read about it in the papers in the last five or six days. I wish I could talk to one of them and have them explain it to me, because it is a major movement that is going on right now."

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