Bollywood legends Shabana Azmi and Javed Akhtar recently celebrated a remarkable milestone—41 years of marriage—marking decades of love, companionship, and mutual respect. Sharing an adorable Instagram post, Shabana captured the essence of their enduring relationship, writing, “To be able to look at each other with such tenderness after 41 years of marriage says it all.. Happy Anniversary Jadu.” The post instantly resonated with fans, filling social media with heartfelt wishes and admiration for the iconic couple.
Among the first to send their greetings were fellow celebrities including Abhay Deol, Soni Razdan, Vidya Balan, Dia Mirza, Anil Kapoor, Urmila Matondkar, and Meiyang Chang. Filmmaker Farah Khan Kunder, who shares her anniversary with the couple, added a sweet note, writing, “Happy happy anniversary my anniversary sharers.” The bond between Shabana and Javed stands as a testament to love, patience, and creative synergy spanning generations in Indian cinema.
Javed Akhtar’s personal life includes a first marriage to veteran screenwriter Honey Irani in 1972, with whom he shares children Farhan Akhtar and Zoya Akhtar, both prominent figures in filmmaking. After their separation, he married Shabana Azmi in 1984, forming one of the most admired couples in Bollywood. Together, they have navigated both personal and professional spheres, balancing creativity, family, and social engagement with elegance.
Shabana Azmi, daughter of legendary poet Kaifi Azmi and theatre actress Shaukat Azmi, has had an illustrious career spanning five decades. She has worked with cinematic stalwarts like Shyam Benegal, Satyajit Ray, Mrinal Sen, and Aparna Sen, portraying strong and nuanced female characters in films such as Mrityu Dand (1997) and Godmother (1999). Her contributions were recognized earlier in 2025 when she received the Radiant Lifetime Achievement Award at the 8th edition of the Radiant Wellness Conclave.
Over the years, Shabana has also embraced social media as a platform to share glimpses of her personal life, from family gatherings to special celebrations, allowing fans to witness her journey beyond the screen. The 41st wedding anniversary of Shabana Azmi and Javed Akhtar is more than a celebration of love—it is a tribute to a partnership rooted in respect, creativity, and unwavering support.