Javed Akhtar's Emotional Journey: From Footpath Nights to Khandala Luxury in Farah Khan's Vlog
In a deeply personal and revealing vlog, veteran lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar opened up about his extraordinary life journey, marked by years of hunger, uncertainty, and relentless struggle. Filmmaker Farah Khan, who is related to Akhtar, recently toured the couple's luxurious bungalow in Khandala, capturing intimate moments and candid reflections from both Akhtar and his wife, actor Shabana Azmi.
A Past of Hardship and Survival
Accompanied by Shabana Azmi, Javed Akhtar spoke with raw honesty about a past that included sleeping on footpaths, skipping meals for days on end, and writing poetry while grappling with an uncertain future. Standing in the expansive home today, he admitted that the dramatic shift from mere survival to financial security remains difficult to fully process. "Sometimes, I wonder if this is happening to me?" Akhtar reflected when asked about owning such a lavish property. "Only those people have a fantasy who don't have anything in life."
He recalled writing his famous poem "Bhook" during one particularly desperate period. "I wrote the poem Bhook when I did not eat for three days straight," he shared, highlighting the stark contrast between his past struggles and present comfort. Reflecting on the nature of success, Akhtar added a poignant observation: "You can live in big houses in your life, but there is always that one small room in your life that you always remember."
Inside the Khandala Bungalow: A Sanctuary Built on Dreams
This video on Farah Khan's YouTube channel offers the first detailed look inside the couple's Khandala property, according to the vlog. Shabana Azmi revealed that the property was purchased approximately 15 years ago, with a 150-year-old tree on the land being the decisive factor that sealed the deal.
The bungalow opens into a large, serene garden adorned with tall trees, elegant marble statues, and a central fountain. Inside, a high-ceilinged foyer leads to rooms filled with vintage furniture and artifacts collected during the couple's extensive travels. As Farah filmed the drawing room and a massive wooden dining table, Akhtar humorously noted that some pieces were "as old as Farah Khan herself."
Creative Differences and a Friend's Wise Counsel
Azmi candidly discussed how building the house led to frequent disagreements between the couple. "I was thinking of making this into a weekend cottage then I got to know that he is building a lavish bungalow here. We used to fight daily about this," she admitted. The impasse was finally resolved when a friend intervened with advice that has since become legendary in their household. "Javed Akhtar is Sholay and you are Ankur, you both will never meet and you have to leave Ankur and let him make Sholay." This metaphorical counsel helped bridge their differing visions, allowing the grand bungalow to take shape.
Modest Beginnings and Shared Memories
Shabana Azmi also reflected on her own modest upbringing, sharing memories of life in a communist party commune where eight families shared a single bathroom and toilet. She lived there until the age of nine before her family moved to Mumbai. These shared experiences of humble beginnings have deeply influenced both their lives and their appreciation for the comforts they now enjoy.
Farah Khan's vlog not only showcases the architectural beauty of the Khandala bungalow but also serves as a powerful narrative of resilience, creativity, and the enduring human spirit. Through guided tours and heartfelt conversations, the video revisits memories from before fame and financial stability, offering viewers a rare glimpse into the personal histories of two of Bollywood's most revered figures.
