It’s difficult working for my children Zoya & Farhan: Javed Akhtar
Legendary lyricist Javed Akhtar has been a pillar of the Indian film industry for decades, penning some of Bollywood’s most iconic songs. However, in a recent interview, he revealed that working with his own children, director Zoya Akhtar and actor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar, is a daunting task. According to Javed, it’s much easier to work with others, but working with family members can be a real challenge.
“It’s easier to work for others…working for your own children is very difficult…They don’t think, ‘He’s our father, so we won’t say anything’…In fact, they feel they must say something,” Javed said in an interview. This admission is a testament to the high standards and expectations that come with working with family members.
Javed’s comments come as no surprise, given the reputation of his children for being particular about their work. Zoya Akhtar, in particular, is known for being a tough taskmaster, always pushing her team to deliver their best. Javed’s description of her as a “tough taskmaster” is likely an understatement, given the high level of precision and attention to detail she brings to her projects.
For Javed, working with his children means having to navigate the complex dynamics of family relationships, where personal and professional boundaries can often become blurred. As a father, he likely wants to support and encourage his children, but as a professional, he also needs to maintain his objectivity and creative vision.
This dilemma is not unique to Javed Akhtar or his family. Many artists and creatives struggle to separate their personal and professional lives, especially when working with family members. The pressure to deliver can be overwhelming, and the fear of disappointing loved ones can be a constant source of anxiety.
Despite the challenges, Javed Akhtar has spoken highly of his children’s work and has been proud to support them in their respective careers. Farhan Akhtar, in particular, has made a name for himself as a talented actor, director, and producer, with films like “Bollywod Hungama” and “Dil Dhadakne Do” to his credit.
Zoya Akhtar, on the other hand, has established herself as a director with a unique vision and style, with films like “Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara” and “Gully Boy” receiving critical acclaim. Her ability to bring complex stories to life on screen has earned her a reputation as one of the most exciting young directors in the industry.
For Javed Akhtar, working with his children is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, he is proud to support their creative endeavors and see them grow as artists. On the other hand, he faces the challenge of maintaining his professional objectivity and creative vision, while also navigating the complex dynamics of family relationships.
In the end, Javed’s comments serve as a reminder that even the most successful and talented individuals can struggle with the challenges of working with family members. Despite the difficulties, Javed Akhtar’s love and support for his children are evident, and his pride in their work is palpable.
