Veteran lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar, one of Indian cinema’s most respected voices, recently shared an interesting reflection on what it’s like to collaborate professionally with his own children — filmmaker Zoya Akhtar and actor-director Farhan Akhtar. In a candid and humorous revelation, Javed admitted that while many assume working with family might come with comfort and leniency, the reality for him is quite the opposite.
During a recent interview, the celebrated writer shared that it is far more challenging to work with his children than it is to work with outsiders. “It’s actually easier to work with other people,” he said, smiling. “When it comes to Zoya and Farhan, they are incredibly demanding. Bahut tough taskmaster hai dono (both are tough taskmasters).”
This confession has struck a chord with many in the creative industry who understand the complex dynamic of working within families — particularly in high-pressure, high-stakes artistic environments like film.
Javed, whose writing career spans decades and includes iconic works like Sholay, Deewar, Silsila, and countless beloved lyrics, has often collaborated with newer generations of talent. However, collaborating with his children, who themselves have made a formidable name in Indian cinema, comes with a different kind of pressure.
Zoya Akhtar, known for her keen cinematic sensibilities in films like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Dil Dhadakne Do, and Gully Boy, has carved a niche for herself as a storyteller with both emotional depth and visual brilliance. Farhan Akhtar, meanwhile, has made his mark both behind the camera (Dil Chahta Hai, Don) and in front of it (Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Rock On!!), gaining acclaim for his versatile skills.
Javed jokingly added that, contrary to what people might think, his children don’t cut him any slack just because he’s their father. In fact, they hold him to the highest standards — and expect him to meet tight deadlines and deliver exactly what the project demands. “They don’t hesitate to critique my work or ask for rewrites. Farhan will say, ‘Abba, this line could be stronger,’ and Zoya will say, ‘This doesn’t fit the scene’s mood.’ It’s not always easy to hear, but I appreciate it.”
He went on to say that he is immensely proud of the creative independence and vision both his children have developed. “They’ve created their own identities. They’re not walking in anyone’s shadow. As a father, that makes me proud. As a collaborator, it keeps me on my toes.”
Javed also reflected on how working with Zoya and Farhan helps him stay creatively challenged, even after so many years in the industry. “They bring in fresh perspectives. Their cinematic language is different from mine — more contemporary, more global. That means I have to adapt and evolve, which is a good thing. It keeps the writer in me alive.”
This blend of mutual respect and high expectations within the Akhtar family is clearly a recipe for creative brilliance. Whether it’s Zoya directing a gripping social commentary or Farhan diving into a complex character, the legacy of storytelling that started with Javed Akhtar continues to evolve — but not without its own set of demanding standards.
In a way, Javed’s experience sheds light on a broader truth: when the professional and the personal intersect, the results can be incredibly rewarding — but they often require more patience, honesty, and a willingness to be challenged. And in Javed Akhtar’s case, it’s evident that he wouldn’t have it any other way.
