In a recent vlog by filmmaker Farah Khan, Bollywood legends Javed Akhtar and Shabana Azmi offered an exclusive tour of their luxurious Khandala mansion, revealing intimate details about their journey from humble beginnings to opulent living. The video, which has garnered significant attention, highlights the stark contrast between their past struggles and current affluence.
From Footpaths to a Lavish Bungalow: Javed Akhtar's Emotional Journey
During the tour, Javed Akhtar opened up about his early days of hardship, sharing poignant memories of sleeping on footpaths and enduring hunger for two to three days at a time. He reflected on how these experiences shaped his perspective, stating, "Sometimes, I wonder if this is happening to me? Only those people have a fantasy who don't have anything in life." Akhtar also mentioned writing the poem Bhook during a period of severe hunger, underscoring the depth of his past struggles.
Inside the Khandala Mansion: A Blend of Vintage Charm and Natural Beauty
The mansion, purchased 15 years ago, is set amidst a sprawling garden adorned with marble statues and a central fountain, surrounded by lush, tall trees. The property's exterior leads into a massive foyer with a tall wooden roof, evoking the quaint feel of an English bungalow. Inside, the interiors are decorated with vintage furniture, adding an old-world charm that complements the couple's artistic sensibilities.
The drawing room is filled with artefacts collected from their global travels, with Akhtar humorously noting that some items might be as old as Farah Khan herself. Large doors and windows seamlessly integrate the outdoors, creating a serene and expansive atmosphere. Additionally, the vlog features a massive wooden dining table, emphasizing the home's grandeur.
Shabana Azmi's Modest Background and Daily Fights Over the Mansion
Shabana Azmi also shared insights into her modest upbringing, revealing that she lived in a communist party commune with eight families sharing one bathroom and toilet until she was nine years old. This background starkly contrasts with their current lifestyle, adding depth to the narrative of their success.
Azmi disclosed that she and Akhtar had frequent disagreements over the scale of the Khandala property. She initially envisioned a weekend cottage, but Akhtar pursued a lavish bungalow, leading to daily fights. A friend's advice ultimately resolved the conflict, with Azmi recalling, "His best friend told me that 'Javed Akhtar is Sholay and you are Ankur, you both will never meet and you have to leave Ankur and let him make Sholay.' I stopped fighting after that."
Reflections on Luxury and Legacy
Akhtar's reflections on luxury were profound, as he remarked, "You can live in big houses in your life, but there is always that one small room in your life that you always remember." This statement encapsulates the emotional weight of their journey from adversity to abundance, making the vlog not just a home tour but a testament to resilience and transformation in the film industry.
