Legendary lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar, celebrated for penning iconic songs such as “Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga,” “Sandese Aate Hain,” and numerous other timeless classics, has built an artistic legacy that spans generations. Beyond his professional achievements, his personal life with celebrated actor Shabana Azmi has captivated admirers for over three-and-a-half decades of marriage.
The Early Fascination: Attraction Before Acquaintance
In a revealing 2000 episode of Rendezvous With Simi Garewal, Javed Akhtar reflected on the emotions that marked the beginning of his relationship with Shabana Azmi. He admitted that his journey toward love was not sudden but rather a gradual evolution from fascination to deep affection.
Javed Akhtar explained that the feeling existed quietly and remained constant long before he could define it. Speaking candidly, he said, “Much before I told it to myself, I was really fascinated by her. I don’t know why. Even when I didn’t know her much, she used to attract me. There was something about her that was always fascinating.”
He further elaborated on the difficulty of pinpointing the exact moment love blossomed, stating, “It’s very difficult for me to decide what was the precise moment when I fell in love with her. I can’t think of a time when I knew this name, I knew this person, even remotely, and I was not attracted to her.” His words reflected a certainty born of genuine emotion, devoid of calculation or drama.
Shabana Azmi’s Perspective: Companionship Leading to Love
Shabana Azmi viewed their bond through the lens of shared roots and emotional comfort, noting that their backgrounds aligned naturally to create ease and trust. She recalled that love followed companionship, with joy playing a pivotal role in their connection.
She said, “Quite soon after I got to know him. Firstly, he used to make me laugh a lot — I used to keep laughing all the time. I enjoyed his company. I find him very stimulating, one of the most intelligent men I have met, so I enjoyed his company very much, and that, I think, led to love.”
A Love That Chose Its Own Time
Before marrying Shabana Azmi, Javed Akhtar was married to Honey Irani, with whom he has two children, Farhan Akhtar and Zoya Akhtar. After separating in 1978, he eventually married Shabana Azmi in 1984, marking the beginning of a partnership that has endured through decades of personal and professional milestones.
Their story stands as a testament to how love can develop organically, rooted in mutual respect, intellectual stimulation, and shared laughter. It highlights the unique dynamics of a relationship that began with an unexplained attraction and grew into a deep, enduring bond.
This glimpse into their personal lives offers fans a deeper understanding of the couple behind the public personas, showcasing a romance built on genuine connection rather than fleeting passion.
