Salman Rushdie has endured a relentless campaign of death threats for more than 35 years, a grim reality that has shaped both his life and his work. The British-American novelist, who was born in India, became a focal point of controversy with the publication of his 1988 novel “The Satanic Verses.” This book sparked outrage among many Muslims, who considered its content blasphemous and offensive to their faith. The backlash was so severe that it prompted Iran’s Supreme Leader at the time, Ayatollah Khomeini, to issue a fatwa in 1989, calling for Rushdie’s assassination. This decree not only put Rushdie’s life in jeopardy but also ignited a global debate about freedom of expression, religious sensitivity, and the limits of artistic license.
The situation escalated dramatically in August 2022 when Rushdie was attacked during a public event in New York. While on stage, he was stabbed multiple times by an assailant, an act of violence that left him with significant injuries, including the loss of sight in one eye. The perpetrator of this brutal attack is currently facing trial for attempted murder, highlighting the ongoing threats that Rushdie continues to face even decades after the initial controversy surrounding his work.
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Rushdie’s harrowing experiences and reflections on the impact of violence and censorship are poignantly captured in his latest book, “Knife.” He shared insights from this work during the 20th edition of the Hay Festival Cartagena in Colombia, engaging in a thought-provoking conversation with Léa Hurel from FRANCE 24’s Spanish channel. Through this dialogue, Rushdie not only recounts his personal journey but also addresses broader themes of resilience, the importance of storytelling, and the enduring struggle for artistic freedom in the face of adversity. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities surrounding literature, faith, and the often perilous intersection of the two.
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