Title: It’s difficult working for my children Zoya & Farhan: Javed Akhtar
The legendary lyricist Javed Akhtar has been a part of the Indian film industry for decades, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema. With a career spanning over five decades, he has worked with numerous directors, actors, and producers, scripting some of the most iconic songs in Bollywood. However, in a recent interview, Javed Akhtar revealed that working with his own children, Zoya Akhtar and Farhan Akhtar, is a unique challenge that he faces. In a candid conversation, he shared his experiences of working with his kids, who have followed in his footsteps to become successful directors and actors in their own right.
The veteran lyricist was speaking to Pinkvilla about his latest project, when he was asked about the challenges he faces while working with his children. Javed Akhtar, known for his wit and humor, didn’t mince words when he said, “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.” He added that his children are a “tough taskmaster” and that they don’t shy away from expressing their opinions and suggestions.
Javed Akhtar’s comments come as no surprise, given the fact that working with family members can often be a delicate balancing act. As a parent, you want to be proud of your children’s work, but sometimes their opinions and suggestions can be hard to take, especially when you’re used to being the one calling the shots. Javed Akhtar’s experience is a testament to the fact that even the most successful and experienced individuals in the industry can face challenges when working with their own children.
The story of Javed Akhtar’s children is a fascinating one. Zoya Akhtar, a talented director and screenwriter, has made a name for herself with films like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Dil Dhadakne Do, and Gully Boy. Farhan Akhtar, an actor, director, and producer, has also had a successful career, with films like Lakshya, Rock On!!, and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag to his credit. Both Zoya and Farhan have worked with their father on various projects, including the critically acclaimed film Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara.
Working with family members can be a double-edged sword. On the one hand, you have a deep understanding of each other’s strengths and weaknesses, which can make the collaboration process smoother. On the other hand, the familiarity can also lead to a lack of objectivity, and the tendency to avoid constructive criticism. Javed Akhtar’s experience is a great example of how working with family members can be a challenge, but also a great opportunity to learn and grow.
The veteran lyricist’s comments also highlight the importance of having a thick skin in the film industry. As a writer, you need to be able to take feedback and criticism, and use it to improve your work. Working with children, especially, requires a high degree of patience and understanding, as they may not always be easy to work with. Javed Akhtar’s ability to take criticism from his children and use it to improve his work is a testament to his professionalism and dedication to his craft.
In conclusion, Javed Akhtar’s comments about working with his children Zoya and Farhan are a reminder that even the most successful individuals in the film industry can face challenges when working with family members. However, with a willingness to learn and grow, and a thick skin, the collaboration process can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. As Javed Akhtar himself said, working with his children may be difficult, but it’s also a unique opportunity to learn and grow, and to be proud of their achievements.
