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Updated Jan 17, 2026 · 17:20
Bollywood News Updated Jan 17, 2026

Zoya Akhtar's Heartfelt Birthday Wish for Father Javed Akhtar on His 81st

Filmmaker Zoya Akhtar wished her father, legendary screenwriter and poet Javed Akhtar, a happy 81st birthday with a touching Instagram post. Veteran actress Shabana Azmi, Javed's wife, also shared a loving tribute celebrating their enduring bond since 1984. Other Bollywood personalities like Chunky Panday, Divya Dutta, and Vikas Khanna extended their birthday wishes on social media. Javed Akhtar hails from a distinguished family of Urdu poets and writers.

Zoya Akhtar wishes birthday to 'Pa' Javed Akhtar: 'Thank you for it all'

Mumbai, Jan 17

Filmmaker Zoya Akhtar wished a happy birthday to her 'Pa' Javed Akhtar with a sweet social media post.

As the acclaimed screenwriter, poet, and lyricist turned a year older on Saturday, the 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara' maker thanked Akhtar for everything he has done for her to date.

Sharing a black and white photo of a young Javed Akhtar on her official Instagram handle, Zoya wished him using the following words, "Happy Birthday Pa (red heart emoji) Thank You For It All (red heart emoji) Only (red heart emoji) #javedakhtar (sic)".

Commenting on the post, actor Chunky Panday shared, "Happy Happy Birthday".

Earlier today, veteran actress Shabana Azmi also shared a heart-touching birthday tribute for her husband on Insta.

Celebrating Javed's 81st birthday, she highlighted their enduring bond, which has been growing strong ever since 1984.

Publishing a still of Javed on social media, Shabana penned, "Salgirah Mubarak Jadu (Happy Birthday Magic)".

Taking to the comment section, actress Divya Dutta wished, "Salgirah mubarak javed saab!!!"

For the unaware, Shabana and Javed Akhtar met at Shabana's father, the legendary poet Kaifi Azmi's home. By the time they first met, Akhtar was already married to Honey Irani and was also a father of two kids-Farhan and Zoya.

Meanwhile, several others wished Akhtar on his special day using social media.

Celebrity chef Vikas Khanna's birthday wish for the 'Sholay' writer went like this, "Javed ji, I have no words to express my gratitude for your love, blessings, and unwavering support. Your words, your poetry, and your spirit have inspired me deeply while writing the screenplay for IMAGINARY RAIN. I hope I can make you proud."

Born in the Gwalior region of Madhya Pradesh, Akhtar is the son of renowned Urdu poet and film lyricist Jan Nisar Akhtar and teacher-writer Safia Akhtar. Coming from a long line of writers, Javed's maternal uncle was the respected Urdu poet Majaz. Additionally, his grandfather, Muztar Khairabadi, was also an influential figure in Urdu poetry.

— IANS

Reader Comments

Rohit P

Happy Birthday to the legend! From "Sholay" dialogues to "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara" poetry, his words have shaped generations. A true icon.

Aman W

It's heartwarming to see the entire film industry come together to celebrate him. But the article spends a bit too much on his personal life history. The focus should be on his work and this sweet birthday moment.

Sarah B

The Akhtar family is such a powerhouse of talent. Zoya's post is so simple yet says everything. What a wonderful literary legacy he comes from.

Vikram M

Salgirah Mubarak Javed Saab! 🎂 His poetry isn't just words, it's the soul of so many of our favorite films. Wishing him many more years of health and creativity.

Kavya N

The love and respect he commands is amazing. From Shabana Azmi to Vikas Khanna, everyone has such kind words. A living legend indeed!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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