Every year, Mumbai’s film fraternity waits for one of the most heartwarming traditions of the season — the annual Holi celebration hosted by veteran actor Shabana Azmi and lyricist-poet Javed Akhtar. On Tuesday, the power couple once again opened the doors of their residence to friends and colleagues from the industry, turning the festival of colours into a vibrant reunion filled with laughter, music and heartfelt camaraderie.
Held at the home of Shabana’s late father, the legendary poet Kaifi Azmi, the venue has become synonymous with their Holi gatherings over the years. The celebration carried forward its legacy of warmth and inclusivity, as stars arrived dressed in festive whites, ready to be drenched in bright gulal. The energy was infectious, with guests greeting the paparazzi with cheerful splashes of colour and wide smiles.
Among those spotted soaking in the festivities were Urmila Matondkar, Richa Chadha, Ali Fazal, Manish Malhotra, Divya Dutta, Anjali Anand and Meiyang Chang. From playful colour smears to group pictures brimming with joy, the gathering perfectly blended old-school Bollywood charm with modern star power.
Beyond the glamour, the celebration also reflected the deeper meaning of Holi. Marking the arrival of spring and the harvest season, the festival is rooted in Hindu mythology and symbolises the triumph of good over evil. Festivities traditionally begin with Holika Dahan — the ceremonial bonfire — followed by a day dedicated to playing with colours, music and shared joy. This year, while Mumbai and parts of Western India celebrated on Tuesday, March 3, North India is set to mark its main celebrations on Wednesday, March 4.
Shabana and Javed’s Holi bash once again proved that some traditions never lose their magic. In a fast-paced industry, their annual celebration remains a beautiful reminder of togetherness, legacy and the enduring power of art, friendship and colour.