Renowned lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar delivered an unfiltered perspective at the Ajanta Ellora International Film Festival in Aurangabad. Taking the stage with candor, he engaged the audience in a thought-provoking discourse on the current landscape of films and songs while also emphasizing the crucial role played by the audience in determining their success. Javed Akhtar’s outspoken remarks provided a unique and insightful commentary on the state of contemporary cinema and music.
Though I agree with @Javedakhtarjadu sir, that films glorifying violence or disrespect towards women must not be celebrated but disagree that biggest responsibility lies with audiences. It lies with filmmakers & actors who green light such projects https://t.co/RCnwiiSrmD
— Amit Mehra (@amitmehra) January 6, 2024
In a veiled reference to Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s upcoming film “Animal,” featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna, Anil Kapoor, and Bobby Deol, lyricist Javed Akhtar expressed concern about the type of films gaining success today. Without explicitly naming the project, he critiqued movies where a man instructs a woman to lick his shoe and where it’s portrayed as acceptable to slap a woman, citing such content as dangerous.
Caught Javed Akhtar vibing to a song written by himself 🫶☺️ pic.twitter.com/2v5GMDqPsm
— Pulkit Kochar (@kocharpulkit) December 30, 2023
The allusion may be traced back to a controversial scene in Sandeep’s previous film, “Kabir Singh,” starring Shahid Kapoor and Kiara Advani. Akhtar’s remarks shed light on his reservations regarding certain themes in contemporary cinema.
Furthermore, Javed Akhtar delved into the dynamics of song controversies, reflecting on the massive ’90s hit “Choli Ke Peeche” from Khal Nayak, with lyrics by Anand Bakshi. Despite the controversy surrounding the song, Akhtar emphasized that the concern doesn’t lie solely with the seven men and two women involved in its creation.
Inaugural ceremony vibes at the 9th Ajanta Ellora International Film Festival!
With Padma Bhushan Javed Akhtar, directors Anubhav Sinha and R. Balki, plus FIPRESCI and Indian competition jury members. A celebration of film, knowledge, and creativity! pic.twitter.com/99Py9upbvi
— Ajanta-Ellora International Film Festival (@aeiffest) January 3, 2024
Instead, he pointed out that the real issue was the overwhelming audience response that propelled the song to massive success. Expressing his unease, Akhtar highlighted the collective responsibility of the audience in popularizing content that might be perceived as problematic.
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Inaugural ceremony vibes at the 9th Ajanta Ellora International Film Festival!
With Padma Bhushan Javed Akhtar, directors Anubhav Sinha and R. Balki, plus FIPRESCI and Indian competition jury members. A celebration of film, knowledge, and creativity! pic.twitter.com/99Py9upbvi
— Ajanta-Ellora International Film Festival (@aeiffest) January 3, 2024