Farhan Akhtar is one of the most respected names in Indian cinema today. He has been active in the film industry since 2000, starting out as a director, actor, producer, writer, lyricist and playback singer. Over the years he has gone on to achieve success and recognition for his work in various aspects of filmmaking. In this blog post we will be taking a look at the journey of this extraordinary filmmaker – from his early life and education to his notable films, awards and recognitions, philanthropic activities, interesting facts and net worth.
Introduction to Farhan Akhtar
Born on 9th January 1974 in Mumbai, India, Farhan Akhtar is the son of renowned screenwriter Javed Akhtar and legendary actress Shabana Azmi. He grew up with two sisters Zoya Akhtar (film director) and Nikhil Advani (director). From a very young age, Farhan showed great interest in movies and wanted to pursue a career in filmmaking. This dream eventually led him to become one of the most accomplished filmmakers of his generation.
Early Life and Education
Farhan had an extremely strong academic background, having studied commerce at H.R College of Commerce & Economics, followed by a degree in Film Making from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). During his studies at UCLA, he also interned at different production houses like Miramax Films, Kaleidoscope Entertainment, Intermedia Films and Industry Entertainment. His excellent academic record speaks volumes about his hardworking nature and determination.
Career as an Actor, Director and Producer
After completing his studies at UCLA, Farhan returned to India to pursue his passion for filmmaking. His first movie as a director was Dil Chahta Hai which was released in 2001 and went on to become one of the biggest blockbusters of all time. Since then, he has directed some of the biggest hits such as Lakshya (2004), Don 2 (2011), Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011) and Rock On!! (2008). Apart from directing films, Farhan also starred in some popular films like Dil Dhadakne Do (2015) and Fukrey Returns (2017). As a producer he has worked on several projects including Bhag Milkha Bhag (2013) and Luck By Chance (2009).
Notable Films Directed or Produced by Farhan Akhtar
Throughout his illustrious career, Farhan has directed or produced some of the best films that have ever graced Indian Cinema. Some of these are mentioned below:
- Dil Chahta Hai (2001) – Directed
- Lakshya (2004) – Directed
- Rock On!! (2008) – Directed
- Don 2 (2011) – Directed
- Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011) – Directed
- Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013) – Produced
- Luck By Chance (2009) – Produced
- Dil Dhadakne Do (2015) – Acted
- Fukrey Returns (2017) – Acted
Recognition and Awards Received By Farhan Akhtar
Over the years Farhan has received numerous awards and accolades for his outstanding contributions to Indian Cinema. He won Best Debut Director Award at the 2002 IIFA Awards for Dil Chahta Hai. At the 62nd National Film Awards held in 2015, he was honored with the Special Jury Award for Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. Other awards include GIFA Critics Choice Best Director Award for Don 2 (2012), Best Dialogue Award for Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011), Most Entertaining Film Award for Rock On!! (2008), Best Director Award at Stardust Awards 2014 and many more.
Philanthropic Activities Carried Out By Farhan Akhtar
Apart from being an acclaimed filmmaker, Farhan is also known for his humanitarian works. He founded MARD Foundation which stands for Men Against Rape & Discrimination with a mission to spread awareness against gender biasness. Farhan is also associated with NGOs like Save The Children India where he serves as a member of the board of directors.
Interesting Facts About Farhan Akhtar
- Farhan loves playing cricket and squash
- He can speak Hindi, English, Urdu and Gujarati fluently
- He hosted the popular show Oye! It’s Friday during 2004–2006
- He composed music for Lakshya under the pseudonym Shankar Ehsaan Loy
- He made his debut as a playback singer in 2005 with title track “Ek LauZ” from movie ‘Lakshya’
- He holds Guinness World Record along with Ritesh Sidhwani & Shah Rukh Khan for largest crowd attending live performance at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium Chennai
Net Worth Of Farhan Akhtar
As per latest reports, Farhan Akhtar’s current estimated net worth stands around ₹100 crore ($14 million). With his hard work and dedication, it is safe to assume that this figure will only increase over time.
Personal Life of Farhan Akhtar
In 2000, Farhan married Adhuna Bhabani who was a hairstylist by profession. They later separated after 16 years of marriage but continue to remain good friends even now. Farhan is currently dating Shibani Dandekar who is an actress cum model cum anchor cum singer. Together they make quite an adorable couple.
Conclusion
To conclude, it goes without saying that Farhan Akhtar has achieved immense success both professionally and personally. Right from his impressive educational background to winning awards for some critically acclaimed films, there is no doubt that he truly deserves every bit of praise and admiration he gets from all across the globe. We wish him all the best for his future endeavors and hope that he continues to entertain us with more amazing works of art.