Acclaimed lyricist-writer Javed Akhtar's powerful speech at the Rajya Sabha wherein he spoke uninhibitedly on issues of democracy and secularism has been lauded by members of the Hindi film fraternity.

On Tuesday, Akhtar gave a farewell speech and shared his experiences in the upper house during the past six years.

He said: "Democracy and secularism, constitution and youth power, these are the advantages India enjoys and they should not be frittered away." He also indirectly took on AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi over his recent refusal to say "Bharat Mata ki Jai".

The speech was hailed as "wonderful" and "magnificent" by a string of celebrities.

Lata Mangeshkar: Namaskar. Kal Javed Akhtar sahab ne sansad mein sacche mann se jo baatein kahi aur jis dhang se kahi wo dil ko chu gayi. Humari film industry ka sar Himalaya ki choti tak uncha hua. Main unko bahut badhaai deti hun aur shukriya adaa karti hun. Ishwar unko khush rakhe.

Rishi Kapoor: Wonderful Javed Akhtar Sahab! Agree with you. Hope people listen to your words and follow.

Divya Dutta: Super awesome speech Javed Akhtar! You really effortlessly win hearts.

Riteish Deshmukh: Was wondering why Javed Akhtar Saab was trending. Just saw his magnificent speech in Rajya Sabha. Great thinker, writer, orator, Bharat Mata Ki Jai.

Varun Dhawan: Brilliant speech by javed Akthar saab. Inspired 2016.

Vishal Dadlani: This applies to all hate-mongers of all parties/ and religions! We are one nation, one people. Don't let them divide us!

Rohit Roy: Javed Akhtar’s farewell speech in Rajya Sabha. March 15, 2016 hear him!