Javed Akhtar on Jaan Nisar Akhtar: A Poet’s Legacy and a Father-Son Bond Forged Through Words

Javed Akhtar paid tribute to his father, Jaan Nisar Akhtar, a prolific lyricist celebrated for his contribution to Hindi cinema. He was known for his simple yet impactful lyrics. Javed highlighted his father’s aversion to the commercial aspects of the film industry, preferring to maintain his artistic integrity. The relationship was strained initially, marked by political turmoil and early separation. The bond between them was later strengthened through a shared love for poetry. Javed spoke of his father’s role in encouraging his own writing. He also discussed his father’s approach to Urdu poetry, focusing on simplicity and accessibility. Javed, acknowledging his inherited talent, is now preserving his father’s legacy through the publication of his works. He emphasized his father’s versatility, which he believed was a key factor in shaping his identity as a poet, noting his ability to seamlessly transition between styles.