Shabana Azmi finds it ‘tough to accept’ that she can’t have children with Javed Akhtar: ‘Society makes you feel incomplete’

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Shabana Azmi finds it 'tough to accept' that she can't have children with Javed Akhtar: ‘Society makes you feel incomplete’

As an ardent admirer of Shabana Azmi, I find her resilience and wisdom truly inspiring. Her journey, marked by acceptance and grace, is one that resonates deeply with me. The way she has navigated the challenges life threw at her, including the inability to bear children due to medical reasons, is a testament to her strength and courage.

For nearly four decades, Shabana Azmi has been married to renowned lyricist Javed Akhtar, yet they chose not to have children. Due to health complications, the actress is unable to conceive a child. In a conversation with Indian Express, she discussed societal pressure making her feel inadequate and embracing the reality of their childless state.

Azmi articulated, “It’s challenging to accept the reality when you can’t have children. Society often leaves you feeling inadequate. It takes effort to overcome that.” The 73-year-old then motivated all women to recognize that their true value lies not only in their personal relationships but also in their professional accomplishments. Shabana pointed out that women tend to define their self-worth through their roles as wives, mothers, and daughters, whereas men typically gauge their worth by their careers and work.

I think my sentiment should be universal, regardless of one’s gender.” In an interview with Simi Grewal in 2000, the star of Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani expressed that it didn’t take long for her to come to terms with not being able to have a child. For Azmi, it wasn’t a significant letdown but rather she was surprised at how quickly she accepted her destiny.

Shabana mentioned, “When I found out I wouldn’t be able to have children, I chose not to dwell on it and become sad. Instead, I picked up my belongings and moved forward, feeling thankful for the numerous other things in life that I could enjoy.

Shabana stated, “Since I’m quite close with Javed’s children, my need to have kids was satisfied. Now they’ve grown and no longer require diaper changes or protection from malaria. This frees up more time for me in my career because, as she puts it, ‘motherhood is incredibly demanding.’

Previously, Javed Akhtar was in marriage with Honey Irani from 1972 until 1985. Together, they are the proud parents of filmmakers Farhan and Zoya. Lately, a documentary series about his life and Salim Khan, titled “Angry Young Men,” has been released, featuring Javed Akhtar’s personal experiences.

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2024-09-18 08:37