Javed Akhtar, one of India’s most respected lyricists and screenwriters, freshly shared about his 61 year journey in Mumbai with deep emotion.
He recalled arriving in the city on October 4, 1964, as a 19-year-old with just 27 naya paisa in his pocket.
Facing homelessness, hunger and unemployment, he said that despite those difficult years, life has ultimately been very kind to him.
He expressed heartfelt gratitude toward Mumbai, Maharashtra, and the country for embracing his work and giving him success.
Born in Gwalior in 1945, Akhtar struggled in his early days, often sleeping on verandahs, corridors, or under trees with other homeless people.
His persistence paid off in 1969 when he finally got his first break in films. Since then, he has become a legendary figure in Indian cinema, known for his powerful lyrics and storytelling.
Akhtar married Honey Irani in 1972 and had two children, Farhan and Zoya Akhtar, before divorcing in 1984 due to his battle with alcoholism. Later that year, he married actress Shabana Azmi.
Reflecting on his long journey, Akhtar said that all his hardships taught him resilience and gratitude, shaping his life and career.