Farhan Akhtar, born on January 9, 1974, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, is one of Bollywood’s most versatile and influential figures. The son of legendary screenwriters Javed Akhtar and Honey Irani, Farhan was raised in a creatively rich environment alongside his sister Zoya Akhtar, herself a celebrated filmmaker. His upbringing in Bandra Bandstand, Mumbai, was steeped in literature, cinema, and progressive thought, laying the foundation for his multifaceted career.

Farhan’s journey into cinema began behind the scenes. He worked as an assistant director on films like Lamhe (1991) and Himalay Putra (1997), before making a groundbreaking directorial debut with Dil Chahta Hai (2001). The film, which redefined youth-centric storytelling in Bollywood, earned him the National Award for Best Hindi Feature Film and multiple Filmfare Awards, including Best Screenplay.

In 1999, Farhan co-founded Excel Entertainment with Ritesh Sidhwani, a production house known for pushing creative boundaries. After directing hits like Lakshya (2004), Don (2006), and Don 2 (2011), Farhan transitioned to acting with Rock On!! (2008), a musical drama that showcased his singing talent and won him the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut.

His acting career flourished with critically acclaimed performances in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011), Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013), Dil Dhadakne Do (2015), Wazir (2016), The Sky Is Pink (2019), and Toofaan (2021). His portrayal of Milkha Singh in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag was especially lauded, earning him the Filmfare Award for Best Actor and solidifying his reputation as a method actor.

Beyond cinema, Farhan is a passionate advocate for social change. In 2012, he launched MARD (Men Against Rape and Discrimination), a campaign aimed at raising awareness about gender equality and violence against women. His commitment to social causes earned him the distinction of being the first male UN Women Goodwill Ambassador for South Asia in 2014.

Farhan’s personal life has also drawn public interest. He was married to hairstylist Adhuna Bhabani from 2000 to 2016, with whom he has two daughters, Shakya and Akira. In 2022, he married actress and VJ Shibani Dandekar.

A self-described atheist, Farhan embraces a secular and inclusive worldview. His hobbies include music, fitness, and collecting gadgets. He’s known for his eclectic taste in cinema, admiring filmmakers like Martin Scorsese, Ridley Scott, and Alfred Hitchcock.

With a net worth of approximately ?140 crores, Farhan Akhtar continues to be a driving force in Indian entertainment. Whether behind the camera, on screen, or on stage, his work reflects a rare blend of intellect, artistry, and authenticity—a true renaissance man of modern Bollywood.