
Javed Akhtar
WritingAbout Javed Akhtar
Javed Akhtar (born 17 January 1945) is an Indian screenwriter, lyricist and poet. Known for his work in Hindi cinema, he has won five National Film Awards, and received the Padma Shri in 1999 and the Padma Bhushan in 2007, two of India's highest civilian honours. He is considered as one of the greatest screenwriters in the history of Hindi Cinema. Akhtar came to recognition in the duo Salim–Javed, and earned his breakthrough as a screenwriter with 1973's Zanjeer. He went on to write the films Deewaar and Sholay, both released in 1975; they earned a cult following, and had a significant impact in popular culture. He later earned praise for his work as a lyricist, winning the National Film Award for Best Lyrics five times and the Filmfare Award for Best Lyricist eight times.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Javed Akhtar reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 13 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Documentary
The majority of Javed Akhtar's filmography leans towards the Documentary genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 23% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Javed Akhtar remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Manto, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Javed Akhtar Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Javed Akhtar's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Javed Akhtar.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Naam Tha Kanhaiyalal | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 2021 | India Shayari Project | Self | Average | Similar → |
| 2018 | Bird of Dusk | (archival footage) | Flop | Similar → |
| 2018 | Manto | Abid Ali Abid | Hit | Similar → |
| 2017 | Bareilly Ki Barfi | Narrator | Hit | Similar → |
| 2017 | Hanuman Da Damdaar | Valmiki (voice) | Flop | Similar → |
| 2015 | Bollywood and Beyond: A Century of Indian Cinema | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2015 | Shamitabh | Self | Average | Similar → |
| 2014 | Jai Ho | self | Average | Similar → |
| 2009 | Mere Khwabon Mein Jo Aaye | Judge 1 | Average | Similar → |
| 2009 | Luck by Chance | Self | Hit | Similar → |
| 1989 | Follow That Star - Amitabh Bachchan | - | Flop | Similar → |
| N/A | The Master: Shyam Benegal | Himself | Flop | Similar → |
Javed Akhtar - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Javed Akhtar?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Javed Akhtar is "Manto" with a rating of 7.4/10.
How many movies has Javed Akhtar acted in?
Javed Akhtar has been featured in at least 13 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Javed Akhtar?
Other notable films include "Bareilly Ki Barfi", "Luck by Chance", and "Shamitabh".




