Javed Akhtar reminisced about his father, Jaan Nisar Akhtar, on the anniversary of his death, focusing on the profound influence the elder Akhtar had on his life and career. He acknowledged his father’s contribution to Hindi film music through poignant and accessible lyrics. Jaan Nisar Akhtar, however, was not market-oriented, adhering to the traditional values of integrity. The early years of their relationship were difficult due to political circumstances and family separation. Following his mother’s death and his father’s remarriage, further complications arose. However, their connection deepened through poetry, with the father recognizing the son’s talent and offering encouragement. Javed emphasized his father’s commitment to making Urdu poetry more relatable to the masses, and his conscious effort to avoid the use of complex Arabic and Persian words. He considers himself blessed to have inherited his father’s clear and transparent style of writing and is currently working on publishing his father’s complete works to honor his legacy.
Javed Akhtar Remembers His Father, Jaan Nisar Akhtar, and Their Journey Through Poetry
