Honey Irani Reveals Alcoholism Was Key Factor in Javed Akhtar Separation
In a candid new interview, veteran writer and former actress Honey Irani has opened up about her marriage to legendary lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar, revealing that his struggle with alcoholism was the major reason for their separation. The couple, who tied the knot in 1972 and share two children – filmmaker Farhan Akhtar and director Zoya Akhtar – parted ways in 1985 after thirteen years of marriage.
The Impact of Rapid Success and Personal Changes
Reflecting on their relationship during an interview with Vickey Lalwani, Irani explained how their rapid rise to fame contributed to marital strain. "I don't know why it didn't work. Everything was moving too fast," she recalled. "The success that they were getting was very fast and with success things do change, the man also changes and so does his surrounding. I guess maybe I could not cope up with that."
Irani described how Akhtar's drinking became a significant problem in their marriage. "His drinking was a major problem. Then he was meeting a lot of people, he was spending evenings out and those things increased a lot in between," she revealed. Despite Akhtar's attempts to quit drinking, the issue persisted and ultimately contributed to their decision to separate.
A Mature and Mutual Decision to Separate
The writer emphasized that their separation was a conscious, mutual decision made before their relationship turned acrimonious. "We both were mature enough to understand that this is not working," Irani stated. "We both took the decision to separate because it wasn't working. So instead of fighting and tearing each other apart, the most sensible thing we did was separating."
Irani also acknowledged her own role in the marriage's challenges, refusing to place blame entirely on Akhtar. "I was also too young and immature, so I'm not blaming Javed entirely," she admitted. "We got into it very fast. We should have waited, maybe we would not have gotten married."
Remembering Their Early Days and Maintaining Friendship
Recalling how their relationship began, Irani shared that she first met Akhtar during the shooting of the 1972 film 'Seeta Aur Geeta,' where she was acting and he was part of the writing team. "He came to me to give me my lines," she remembered. "The first thing that I noticed about him was his sense of humour. Also, anyone could talk to him on any topic, he had so much knowledge. That was something which was very attractive."
Following their divorce, Akhtar married acclaimed actress Shabana Azmi. Irani clarified that she has never blamed Azmi for the breakdown of her marriage to Akhtar. Remarkably, Irani has maintained a friendship with both Akhtar and Azmi over the years.
Philosophy on Separation and Moving Forward
Irani shared her perspective on separation, suggesting that it doesn't have to be bitter if handled with honesty and maturity. "Once you have separated, then what is the problem. Then why are you angry and why are you crying?" she questioned philosophically.
She acknowledged that while it took several years for emotions to settle after their divorce, Akhtar continued to support their children, and over time, the pain of separation softened for everyone involved. Irani's revelations provide rare insight into one of Bollywood's most discussed relationships, highlighting both the challenges of fame and the possibility of maintaining respect and friendship after divorce.
