Amid a controversy surrounding the national anthem, actor Farhan Akhtar today said the anthem evokes a sense of respect in him and he stands up whenever it is played.

Recently, a video showing a family being asked to leave a cinema hall in suburban Mumbai for not standing up while the national anthem was being played had gone viral on social media.

Talking to reporters here, Farhan said, "There is a Supreme Court ruling as to what a person should do when the national anthem is played. It is up to each individual whether they want to follow the ruling or not.

"I can answer for myself. When I hear the national anthem I will stand as it evokes respect."

The 41-year-old "Bhaag Milkha Bhaag" actor was talking on the sidelines of an event organised by Dulux paints, where actress Shraddha Kapoor was also present.