When film critic Rajeev Masand called Bollywood star Akshay Kumar a "jackass" on a social networking site, guess who stood up in arms against him? Megastar Amitabh Bachchan!

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.