Bollywood’s versatile talent Farhan Akhtar is celebrating his 51st birthday today. Farhan has made a distinct identity in the industry as a director, producer, writer, singer and actor. Born on 9 January 1974 to famous writer Javed Akhtar, Farhan was passionate about art and creativity since childhood. His debut directorial film ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ introduced a new thinking in Bollywood and took him to the heights of fame.
Today, on the special occasion of his birthday, we will discuss some interesting stories related to his film and personal life.
Farhan Akhtar’s film career and memorable films
1. Beginning of direction
Farhan started his career with direction. His first directorial film ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ (2001) gave the audience a new genre experience. Based on friendship, relationships and the life of youth, this film started a new era in Bollywood.
2. Journey of acting
After direction, Farhan stepped into acting and proved himself in every role. In his first film ‘Rock On’ (2008), he performed brilliantly in acting and singing. After this, many hit films were added to his list of films:
- ‘You will never get life again’
- ‘Bhaag Milkha Bhaag’
- ‘Let the heart beat’
- ‘The Sky is Pink’
- ‘Lucknow Central’
3. Hollywood Project
Apart from Bollywood, Farhan also acted in the Hollywood film ‘Bride and Prejudice’, due to which he made his mark at the international level.
Farhan Akhtar’s personal life: ups and downs and new beginnings
First marriage and divorce
Farhan married hairstylist Adhuna Bhabani in the year 2000. Both of them lived their married life successfully for 16 years, but finally in 2017 they decided to separate. Farhan and Adhuna have two daughters, with whom Farhan has a deep bond.
Revelation of second marriage and therapy
After separation from Adhuna, Farhan started dating actress and singer Shibani Dandekar. Both of them got married in 2022. An interesting incident came to light regarding his married life.
Shibani revealed in a podcast that they went for couple therapy just two days after their marriage. He said:
“We started taking couple therapy right after our engagement. This was a means to improve our relationship and resolve any disputes. It’s like going to the gym—you have to do it regularly.”
Therapist’s response
Shibani told that during the therapy sessions, sometimes she did not have anything special to say, but sometimes she had a lot of things to say.
His therapist was shocked when he went to therapy even after marriage. But it proved helpful in strengthening their relationship.
Interesting facts related to Farhan Akhtar’s life
childhood and inspiration
- Farhan was born in a creative family. His father Javed Akhtar and mother Honey Irani are well-known Bollywood writers.
- Farhan learned the art of direction and writing by watching his mother’s films.
Passion for creative work
Farhan never limited himself to any one field. From direction to singing, he did wonders in every role. Due to his versatility, he is counted among the most capable actors of Bollywood today.
What does the story of Farhan Akhtar and Shibani teach?
This story from Farhan and Shibani’s couple therapy shows how important communication and effort are to build a strong relationship. This is an inspiration not just for celebrities but for every couple that one should never be afraid of compromises in relationships.