Meet actor who started as AD, worked with Hrithik Roshan, Priyanka Chopra, owns production house; and has given some of Bollywood’s iconic movies

Born on the 9th of January, 1974, in Mumbai, India, Farhan Akhtar comes from an esteemed family with a rich artistic background. His father, Javed Akhtar, is a well-known screenwriter and poet, and his mother, Honey Irani, is a respected screenwriter and former actress. Notably, Farhan’s paternal grandfather, Jan Nisar Akhtar, was an acclaimed Urdu poet, and his sister, Zoya Akhtar, is also a prominent film director in the industry.

Prior to embarking on his acting journey, Farhan Akhtar initially made his mark in the movie world as a junior director. At age 17, he served as an apprentice in film distribution and direction for Yash Chopra’s Lamhe, and later collaborated with Pankaj Parashar in directing Himalay Putra.

1999 saw Farhan team up with Ritesh Sidhwani to launch Excel Entertainment, a production company that’s made its mark. His directorial career kicked off with Dil Chahta Hai, a movie appreciated for its depiction of contemporary Indian youth and bagging the National Award for Best Hindi Film. He followed this success with films like Lakshya and Don, strengthening his status in the industry even more.

In his acting career, Farhan first appeared in Rock On!! Since then, he has demonstrated his range by tackling varied roles in movies such as Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, and Toofaan, proving his adaptability and dedication to his art.

In 2000, Adhuna Bhabani, who is seven years older than Farhan Akhtar, got married to him. The couple had been dating for three years prior to their wedding. Their paths first crossed during the production of Farhan’s directorial debut, “Dil Chahta Hai,” where Adhuna made her Bollywood entrance as a hairstylist.

In 2016, following a 16-year long marriage, the couple parted ways due to their relationship falling apart. This legal separation occurred in 2016 and their divorce was officially concluded in April 2017. During this process, Adhuna was granted custody of their two daughters, Shakya and Akira.

In 2018, Farhan encountered love anew with Shibani Dandekar. They connected over their mutual enthusiasm for fitness, and their bond grew stronger. On February 19, 2022, they exchanged vows at Farhan’s farmhouse in Khandala. It is worth noting that Shibani is seven years younger than Farhan.

In his upcoming projects, Farhan will appear in the acclaimed drama “120 Bahadur,” which is inspired by the Rezang La battle.

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2025-04-01 16:37