Following comments on Akshay's visit to ailing cartoonist R.K. Laxman at the Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai Sunday, Masand posted on his Twitter page: "Need innovative ideas to promote films in competitive times. But Akshay Kumar grinning like a jackass at R.K. Laxman's hospital bed is a new low."
Akshay's gesture was seen as a marketing gimmick for his upcoming film "Khatta Meetha", in which he plays the role of a simple man who dreams big. Ever since his visit to the cartoonist, Akshay has been receiving a lot of criticism.
But calling him a "jackass" was going a little too far, says Amitabh.
"Rajeev...your fraternity will never pull you up for calling Akshay a 'jackass'. Ever thought if the reverse were to be done...would your fraternity have spared Akshay if he were to address you as one? Never expected this language from you, " Bachchan posted.
In return, Masand typed out a "humble reply" to Amitabh.
"Dear Sir, Let's consider - 'if my fraternity won't pull me up for that 'jackass' comment, could it possibly be because they see some sense in my comment? Or could it be because that's what fraternity does: Stands by each other? You should know, Sir.
"I don't remember your fraternity pulling you up for the attack on photographers by security outside your house during Abhishek's wedding. I don't remember your fraternity so much as expressing outrage when Abhishek 'allegedly' bashed up a photographer on a film set. But your concern sir, is the use of the term 'jackass'."
Masand went on to explain his stand, and meanwhile Akshay thanked Big B for showing his support.
"Never have I felt such a strong support towards me in my career. The love you have for your colleagues and our fraternity is one to be admired and followed. I understand what ever we say or do sir will always be speculated and blown into outrageous proportions, but always know you have a greatness about you that even the best of people find hard to understand, " posted Akshay.
"My deepest gratitude to you for your humble support, if only we all possessed a bit of dignity quite like yours..., " he added.