World · India Bureau
Shabana Azmi Opens Up About Javed Akhtar's Struggle Years in Mumbai
The acclaimed actress recalled her husband's early days of financial hardship and creative uncertainty in the film industry. Azmi shared insights into the motivational words Akhtar used to sustain himself during his most challenging period.
LSN India ·
Shabana Azmi has offered a candid glimpse into lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar's formative years in Mumbai, when he faced considerable professional and personal difficulties while trying to establish himself in Indian cinema.
The National Award-winning actress described how Akhtar persevered through a phase when success seemed distant and he contemplated abandoning his creative aspirations. During this period of uncertainty, the acclaimed writer relied on self-affirmation to maintain his resolve and continue pursuing his ambitions in the film industry.
Azmi highlighted the motivational phrases Akhtar would repeat to himself as he navigated the competitive landscape of Hindi cinema. These personal mantras served as anchors during moments when he stood at the precipice of giving up on his dreams entirely.
The revelation offers insight into the personal fortitude that eventually led to Akhtar's emergence as one of Indian cinema's most influential writers and lyricists, known for his collaborations with composer Salim Jaipur and his significant contributions to Hindi film storytelling during the 1970s and 1980s.