Javed Akhtar Biography, Life Story, Family, Career, Songs, Movies, Books, Awards and Net Worth 2026
Javed Akhtar is one of India’s most respected writers, lyricists, poets and public intellectuals. His name is deeply connected with Hindi cinema, Urdu poetry, meaningful songs, unforgettable dialogues and progressive thought. From the legendary Salim-Javed screenwriting era to his powerful poetry collections and award-winning lyrics, Javed Akhtar has shaped modern Indian popular culture for more than five decades.
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| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Javed Akhtar |
| Original Childhood Name | Jadoo |
| Profession | Poet, Lyricist, Screenwriter, Public Speaker |
| Date of Birth | 17 January 1945 |
| Birthplace | Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India |
| Age in 2026 | 81 Years |
| Zodiac Sign | Capricorn |
| Father | Jan Nisar Akhtar, Urdu poet and film lyricist |
| Mother | Safia Akhtar, writer and teacher |
| Brother | Salman Akhtar, psychoanalyst and poet |
| Schooling | Lucknow |
| Higher Education | Saifiya College, Bhopal |
| First Wife | Honey Irani |
| Second Wife | Shabana Azmi |
| Children | Farhan Akhtar and Zoya Akhtar |
| Famous Writing Partner | Salim Khan |
| Famous Screenwriting Brand | Salim-Javed |
| Famous Movies | Sholay, Deewaar, Zanjeer, Don, Mr. India |
| Famous Books | Tarkash, Lava, Quiver, In Other Words |
| Major Honours | Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, National Film Awards, Filmfare Awards |
| Current Status | Alive and active in public, literary and cultural discussions |
Who Is Javed Akhtar?
Javed Akhtar is an Indian writer, lyricist and poet best known for his contribution to Hindi cinema and Urdu literature. He became famous as one half of the legendary screenwriting duo Salim-Javed. Together, Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar wrote some of the most powerful films of Indian cinema, including Zanjeer, Deewaar, Sholay, Don and Trishul.
Later, Javed Akhtar became one of the most successful lyricists in Bollywood. His songs are known for emotional depth, simple language, poetic beauty and strong human feeling. He has written romantic songs, patriotic songs, philosophical songs and youth-oriented songs with equal command.
☑️ Javed Akhtar is a poet with a strong literary background.
☑️ He is a legendary Bollywood screenwriter.
☑️ He is a highly awarded lyricist.
☑️ He is known for rational, progressive and secular views.
When and Where Was Javed Akhtar Born?
Javed Akhtar was born on 17 January 1945 in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India. His birthday falls under the zodiac sign Capricorn. He was born into a literary family where poetry, language and progressive thinking were part of daily life.
His childhood name was Jadoo. This name came from a poetic line written by his father. Later, he was officially named Javed Akhtar because “Javed” sounded close to “Jadoo”.
Javed Akhtar Parents and Family Background
Javed Akhtar’s father was Jan Nisar Akhtar, a famous Urdu poet and Hindi film lyricist. His mother was Safia Akhtar, a writer and teacher. His family had a strong connection with Urdu poetry, literature and intellectual thought.
His grandfather Muztar Khairabadi was also a poet. His great-great-grandfather Fazl-e-Haq Khairabadi was a scholar and historical personality. This rich literary heritage helped Javed Akhtar develop a love for words, rhythm and expression from a young age.
Javed Akhtar Siblings
Javed Akhtar’s well-known brother is Salman Akhtar. Salman Akhtar is a respected psychoanalyst, writer and poet. Both brothers inherited a deep connection with literature, language and intellectual work.
| Name | Relation | Profession |
|---|---|---|
| Salman Akhtar | Brother | Psychoanalyst, writer and poet |
Javed Akhtar Education
Javed Akhtar spent much of his childhood in Lucknow, where he received early education. Later, he studied at Saifiya College in Bhopal. His education and upbringing exposed him to Urdu poetry, Hindi cinema, literature, debate and theatre culture.
His formal education was important, but his real training came from books, poetry gatherings, film studios, personal struggle and observation of society.
Javed Akhtar Early Career
Javed Akhtar came to Bombay, now Mumbai, with dreams of working in films. Like many creative people, his early days were not easy. He struggled for work, contacts and recognition. However, his talent for dialogue, story structure and dramatic writing gradually opened doors for him.
His first credited work as a dialogue writer was Yakeen in 1969. The real turning point came when he formed a writing partnership with Salim Khan. This partnership changed the history of Hindi cinema.
Javed Akhtar Career as Film Writer
Javed Akhtar’s career as a film writer became historic through the Salim-Javed partnership. They gave Hindi cinema the “angry young man” era and helped build Amitabh Bachchan’s superstar image. Their scripts had strong heroes, emotional conflict, memorable dialogues and social anger.
Films like Zanjeer, Deewaar and Sholay were not just commercial successes; they became cultural landmarks. These films changed the tone of Bollywood from soft romance to powerful drama, action and social rebellion.
Javed Akhtar Career as Poet and Lyricist
After becoming famous as a screenwriter, Javed Akhtar achieved another peak as a lyricist. His songs are loved because they are poetic yet easy to understand. He writes about love, separation, dreams, patriotism, hope and human dignity.
Songs such as “Ek Ladki Ko Dekha”, “Sandese Aate Hain”, “Kal Ho Naa Ho”, “Jashn-e-Bahara”, “Mitwa” and “Senorita” show his wide range. His lyrics have emotional clarity and literary beauty.
Javed Akhtar Love Story, Marriage, Wife and Kids
Javed Akhtar was first married to Honey Irani, who is a screenwriter and former child artist. The couple had two children: Farhan Akhtar and Zoya Akhtar. Both became major names in Indian cinema.
Later, Javed Akhtar married Shabana Azmi, one of India’s most respected actresses. Their relationship is admired for intellectual companionship, artistic values and mutual respect.
☑️ First wife: Honey Irani
☑️ Second wife: Shabana Azmi
☑️ Son: Farhan Akhtar
☑️ Daughter: Zoya Akhtar
Javed Akhtar Height, Weight and Personality
Javed Akhtar is widely recognized for his graceful public presence, sharp wit and expressive speaking style. Javed Akhtar height is 5' 8 inches and Javed akhtar were fhtvis 70 kg. Exact verified height and weight figures are not officially confirmed. Many entertainment websites mention estimated physical details, but they should not be treated as official data.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5' 8" |
| Weight | 70 kg |
| Public Image | Poetic, confident, rational and articulate |
Javed Akhtar Net Worth 2026, Assets and Cars
Javed Akhtar’s exact net worth in 2026 is not officially declared. Online estimates vary widely, so any fixed figure should be treated as an estimate only. His income sources include film writing, lyrics, poetry events, books, public speaking, royalties and intellectual property.
There is no verified public list of Javed Akhtar’s complete assets, car fleet or per-film fee. Responsible reporting should avoid fake numbers. It is safer to say that he is among India’s most successful and respected literary-film personalities.
Javed Akhtar Contact Number and WhatsApp Number
Javed Akhtar’s personal contact number and WhatsApp number are not publicly available. For privacy and safety reasons, personal phone numbers of celebrities should not be shared. People who want to contact him professionally should use official management, verified social media or event booking channels.
Javed Akhtar Controversies and Public Debates
Javed Akhtar is known for speaking openly on religion, politics, freedom of expression, secularism and social issues. Because of his bold opinions, he has often been part of public debates and controversies. However, his supporters admire him for intellectual honesty and courage.
His public image is not limited to cinema. He is also seen as a thinker who raises questions about society, superstition, human rights and democracy.
Javed Akhtar Timeline from Birth to Present
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1945 | Born in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh |
| Childhood | Grew up in a literary family and studied in Lucknow |
| 1960s | Moved toward Hindi film industry |
| 1969 | Early credited work as dialogue writer in Yakeen |
| 1971 | Salim-Javed wrote Andaz |
| 1973 | Zanjeer became a major turning point |
| 1975 | Deewaar and Sholay became historic films |
| 1980s | Became active as lyricist and independent writer |
| 1995 | Poetry collection Tarkash gained recognition |
| 1999 | Received Padma Shri |
| 2007 | Received Padma Bhushan |
| 2010-2016 | Served as nominated Rajya Sabha member |
| 2013 | Received Sahitya Akademi Award for Lava |
| 2020 | Received Richard Dawkins Award |
| 2026 | Alive and active in cultural and literary life |
Top Ten Movies Written by Javed Akhtar
| No. | Movie | Role | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zanjeer | Writer with Salim Khan | 1973 |
| 2 | Deewaar | Writer with Salim Khan | 1975 |
| 3 | Sholay | Writer with Salim Khan | 1975 |
| 4 | Don | Writer with Salim Khan | 1978 |
| 5 | Trishul | Writer with Salim Khan | 1978 |
| 6 | Kaala Patthar | Writer with Salim Khan | 1979 |
| 7 | Shaan | Writer with Salim Khan | 1980 |
| 8 | Shakti | Writer with Salim Khan | 1982 |
| 9 | Mr. India | Story/Screenplay legacy of Salim-Javed | 1987 |
| 10 | Lakshya | Lyricist | 2004 |
Top Ten Heroines in Javed Akhtar Connected Films
| No. | Heroine | Movie | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jaya Bachchan | Sholay | 1975 |
| 2 | Hema Malini | Sholay | 1975 |
| 3 | Zeenat Aman | Don | 1978 |
| 4 | Rakhee Gulzar | Trishul | 1978 |
| 5 | Parveen Babi | Deewaar | 1975 |
| 6 | Sridevi | Mr. India | 1987 |
| 7 | Preity Zinta | Kal Ho Naa Ho | 2003 |
| 8 | Kajol | Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna | 2006 |
| 9 | Aishwarya Rai Bachchan | Jodhaa Akbar | 2008 |
| 10 | Katrina Kaif | Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara | 2011 |
Top Ten Javed Akhtar Songs
| No. | Song | Film | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ek Ladki Ko Dekha | 1942: A Love Story | 1994 |
| 2 | Sandese Aate Hain | Border | 1997 |
| 3 | Kal Ho Naa Ho | Kal Ho Naa Ho | 2003 |
| 4 | Mitwa | Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna | 2006 |
| 5 | Jashn-e-Bahara | Jodhaa Akbar | 2008 |
| 6 | Senorita | Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara | 2011 |
| 7 | Agar Main Kahoon | Lakshya | 2004 |
| 8 | Main Aisa Kyun Hoon | Lakshya | 2004 |
| 9 | Sapnon Se Bhare Naina | Luck By Chance | 2009 |
| 10 | Dil Dhadakne Do | Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara | 2011 |
Top Ten Books by or About Javed Akhtar
| No. | Book | Type |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tarkash | Poetry Collection |
| 2 | Lava | Poetry Collection |
| 3 | Quiver | Poetry Translation |
| 4 | In Other Words | Poetry/Translation |
| 5 | Talking Films | Conversations on Cinema |
| 6 | Talking Songs | Conversations on Lyrics |
| 7 | Selected Poems | Poetry Selection |
| 8 | The Inheritance of Loss of Silence | Poetic/Essay Reference |
| 9 | Hindi Film Song: Music Beyond Boundaries | Related Cinema Study |
| 10 | Sholay: The Making of a Classic | Related Film Study |
Javed Akhtar Awards and Achievements
Javed Akhtar has received some of India’s highest civilian and artistic honours. His awards prove his command over both cinema and literature.
☑️ Padma Shri in 1999
☑️ Padma Bhushan in 2007
☑️ Five National Film Awards
☑️ Sixteen Filmfare Awards
☑️ Sahitya Akademi Award for Lava
☑️ Richard Dawkins Award in 2020
Javed Akhtar Social Media Accounts
| Platform | Handle / Status | Note |
|---|---|---|
| X / Twitter | @Javedakhtarjadu | Known official public handle |
| @jaduakhtar | Official account mentioned on profile | |
| Use caution | Several fan/fake pages exist | |
| Personal WhatsApp | Not public | Do not trust unofficial numbers |
Conclusion
Javed Akhtar’s life story is the story of talent, struggle, language, discipline and courage. He entered cinema as a writer, became a legend with Salim-Javed, reinvented himself as a lyricist, earned respect as a poet and became a strong public voice. His journey proves that words can entertain, inspire and change society.
If you love Bollywood history, Urdu poetry, meaningful songs and inspiring life stories, Javed Akhtar’s biography is a must-read example of creative excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Javed Akhtar
? 1. Who is Javed Akhtar?
Javed Akhtar is an Indian poet, lyricist and screenwriter known for Hindi cinema and Urdu poetry.
? 2. When was Javed Akhtar born?
He was born on 17 January 1945.
? 3. Where was Javed Akhtar born?
He was born in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India.
? 4. What is Javed Akhtar’s zodiac sign?
His zodiac sign is Capricorn.
? 5. Who was Javed Akhtar’s father?
His father was Jan Nisar Akhtar, a noted Urdu poet and film lyricist.
? 6. Who was Javed Akhtar’s mother?
His mother was Safia Akhtar, a writer and teacher.
? 7. Who is Javed Akhtar’s wife?
Javed Akhtar is married to actress Shabana Azmi. His first wife was Honey Irani.
? 8. Who are Javed Akhtar’s children?
His children are Farhan Akhtar and Zoya Akhtar.
? 9. Is Javed Akhtar alive in 2026?
Yes, Javed Akhtar is alive in 2026.
? 10. What was Javed Akhtar’s first film?
His early credited work includes Yakeen in 1969, while Salim-Javed’s major breakthrough came with Zanjeer.
? 11. What is Javed Akhtar famous for?
He is famous for screenwriting, poetry, lyrics and public speaking.
? 12. Did Javed Akhtar write Sholay?
Yes, Sholay was written by the famous Salim-Javed partnership.
? 13. Did Javed Akhtar write Zanjeer?
Yes, Zanjeer was written by Salim-Javed and became a turning point in Hindi cinema.
? 14. Is Javed Akhtar in drama Zanjeerain?
No verified information confirms him as part of drama Zanjeerain. His connection is with the film Zanjeer.
? 15. What are Javed Akhtar’s top books?
His notable books include Tarkash, Lava, Quiver, In Other Words, Talking Films and Talking Songs.
? 16. What are Javed Akhtar’s famous songs?
His famous songs include Ek Ladki Ko Dekha, Sandese Aate Hain, Kal Ho Naa Ho, Jashn-e-Bahara and Senorita.
? 17. What is Javed Akhtar’s net worth in 2026?
His exact net worth is not officially declared. Online figures are estimates only.
? 18. What is Javed Akhtar’s contact number?
His personal contact number is not public.
? 19. What is Javed Akhtar’s WhatsApp number?
His WhatsApp number is not publicly available.
? 20. How can someone contact Javed Akhtar?
Professional contact should be made through official management, verified public profiles or event representatives.
? 21. What awards has Javed Akhtar won?
He has won Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, National Film Awards, Filmfare Awards and Sahitya Akademi Award.
? 22. Who was Javed Akhtar’s writing partner?
His famous writing partner was Salim Khan.
? 23. What is Salim-Javed?
Salim-Javed was the legendary screenwriting duo of Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar.
? 24. What is Javed Akhtar’s official X handle?
His known X handle is @Javedakhtarjadu.
? 25. Why is Javed Akhtar important?
He is important because he transformed Hindi film writing, wrote memorable lyrics and enriched modern Urdu poetry.
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