Renowned screenwriter and lyricist Javed Akhtar celebrated his 81st birthday on October 4. Commemorating the milestone, his wife, celebrated actress Shabana Azmi, posted a deeply personal tribute recalling his early struggles in Mumbai. She recounted a period when he lacked even a roof over his head and went without meals for days before achieving prominence in the film industry.
Arriving at Mumbai Central with Empty Pockets
Reflecting on his journey alongside an unseen archival photograph, Shabana Azmi recounted that Javed Akhtar first arrived at Mumbai Central railway station on October 4, 1964. At the time, he was a 19 year old youth carrying merely 27 paise in his pocket alongside towering aspirations. Without financial resources or shelter, he spent nights sleeping on station platforms, pavements, and open studio compounds. During those harsh days, he had no belongings beyond the clothes he was wearing.
Three Days Without Food and Unwavering Resolve
The hardship intensified to the point where he went without food for three consecutive days. Even as despair threatened to overwhelm him, he refused to give up, holding on to an inner resolve. Reminding himself of his purpose, he told himself, 'I was not born to die like this, these days will change.' From having nothing to lose on October 4, 1964, he went on to craft some of Hindi cinema's most memorable lines and lyrics by October 4, 2026. Azmi noted that remarkable journeys often begin from absolute zero, urging others never to lose courage in adversity.
Marital History and Personal Milestones
Alongside his professional career, Akhtar's personal life has also remained in the spotlight over the years. Before marrying Shabana Azmi, he wed noted screenwriter Honey Irani in 1972. The couple had two children, Zoya Akhtar and Farhan Akhtar. They separated in 1978, and their divorce was finalized in 1985. Prior to the formal finalization, Akhtar entered his second marriage with Shabana Azmi in 1984.
Grace and Mutual Respect Between Families
Their relationship began during his first marriage, which stirred significant public debate and controversy at the time. Nevertheless, the couple has stood firmly together for more than four decades. Over the years, Azmi has consistently spoken about the absence of friction between herself and Honey Irani. She credited Irani for maintaining emotional balance and ensuring Farhan and Zoya were never alienated, allowing a healthy and affectionate dynamic to develop across the family.
