Javed Akhtar's Initial Doubts About Zoya Akhtar's 'Gully Boy'

Javed Akhtar’s Initial Doubts About Zoya Akhtar’s ‘Gully Boy’

Javed Akhtar’s Initial Doubts: In the bustling world of Bollywood, filmmaker Zoya Akhtar has carved a niche for herself with her unique storytelling and directorial prowess.

However, her journey to success wasn’t without its challenges, and even her own father, the renowned lyricist Javed Akhtar, had his reservations about her directorial abilities.

Javed Akhtar’s Initial Doubts About Zoya Akhtar’s ‘Gully Boy’

During the making of Zoya Akhtar’s critically acclaimed film ‘Gully Boy’, Javed Akhtar harbored doubts about her ability to capture the essence of the Mumbai streets and the lives of aspiring rappers.

Javed Akhtar's Initial Doubts About Zoya Akhtar's 'Gully Boy'

In a recent interview, Javed Akhtar candidly confessed his initial skepticism, stating, “When she was making ‘Gully Boy’, I thought, ‘How will she make it?’ You stay in Bandstand, and go for holidays in London, America, and Hong Kong. How would you know about all this?”

Despite his reservations, Javed Akhtar kept his doubts to himself, not wanting to discourage his daughter’s creative endeavors. However, his apprehensions were soon dispelled when he witnessed the final product.

Upon watching ‘Gully Boy’, Javed Akhtar was deeply impressed by Zoya’s portrayal of the Mumbai underground rap scene and the struggles faced by young artists.

Javed Akhtar's Initial Doubts About Zoya Akhtar's 'Gully Boy'
Image credit: Pinkvilla

Zoya Akhtar’s ‘Gully Boy’ went on to become a critical and commercial success, garnering numerous awards, including the prestigious Filmfare Award for Best Film. Javed Akhtar’s initial doubts were replaced by immense pride in his daughter’s achievements.

This anecdote highlights the challenges faced by aspiring filmmakers, even in families with established members in the industry. It’s a testament to Zoya Akhtar’s talent and determination that she overcame her father’s doubts and created a masterpiece like ‘Gully Boy’.

Film ‘Gully Boy’: Story and Achievements

Gully Boy (2019) is an Indian Hindi-language musical drama film directed by Zoya Akhtar and produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani under their banners Excel Entertainment and Tiger Baby Films.

Javed Akhtar's Initial Doubts About Zoya Akhtar's 'Gully Boy'
Image credit: The Times of India

The film is inspired by the lives of Mumbai-based rappers Divine and Naezy. It stars Ranveer Singh as Murad Ahmed, an aspiring rapper from the slums of Mumbai, and Alia Bhatt as Safeena Fathima Khan, a medical student who becomes Murad’s love interest.

The film also features Siddhant Chaturvedi, Vijay Raaz, and Kalki Koechlin in supporting roles.

Plot

Murad Ahmed, a 22-year-old student from the Dharavi slums of Mumbai, is struggling to find his place in the world. He is trapped in a monotonous life, working as a peon at his father’s company and dealing with his overbearing family.

However, Murad finds solace in hip-hop music, using it as an outlet to express his frustrations and dreams.

Javed Akhtar's Initial Doubts About Zoya Akhtar's 'Gully Boy'

One day, Murad meets Shrikant “MC Sher” Kamble (Siddhant Chaturvedi), a local rapper who encourages him to pursue his passion for hip-hop. Murad begins performing at underground rap events, where his raw and honest lyrics catch the attention of the music industry.

As Murad’s popularity grows, he also faces challenges from his family, friends, and society. He is torn between his desire to pursue his dreams and his responsibilities to his family.

However, with the support of MC Sher and Safeena, Murad finds the strength to fight for his dreams and make his voice heard.

Themes

Javed Akhtar's Initial Doubts About Zoya Akhtar's 'Gully Boy'
Image credit: BizAsiaLive
  • Social class and inequality
  • The power of music
  • Self-expression and identity
  • Dreams and aspirations
  • Love and relationships

Critical Reception

Gully Boy was praised by critics for its performances, music, and social message. The film was a box office success, grossing over ₹230 crore (US$33 million) worldwide. It won several awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Film, Best Actor (Singh), and Best Actress (Bhatt).

Awards

Javed Akhtar's Initial Doubts About Zoya Akhtar's 'Gully Boy'
Image credit: The Economic Times
  • Filmfare Awards
  • Best Film
  • Best Actor (Male) – Ranveer Singh
  • Best Actress (Female) – Alia Bhatt
  • Best Music Director – Divine, Naezy, Sez, Spitfire, Ace, and Slow Cheetah
  • Best Lyrics – Divine, Naezy, Sez, Spitfire, Ace, and Slow Cheetah
  • Best Male Playback Singer – Ranveer Singh for “Apna Time Aayega”
  • IIFA Awards
  • Best Film
  • Best Actor (Male) – Ranveer Singh
  • Best Actress (Female) – Alia Bhatt
  • Best Music Director – Divine, Naezy, Sez, Spitfire, Ace, and Slow Cheetah
  • Best Lyrics – Divine, Naezy, Sez, Spitfire, Ace, and Slow Cheetah
  • Best Male Playback Singer – Ranveer Singh for “Apna Time Aayega”
  • Zee Cine Awards
  • Best Film
  • Best Actor (Male) – Ranveer Singh
  • Best Actress (Female) – Alia Bhatt
  • Best Music Director – Divine, Naezy, Sez, Spitfire, Ace, and Slow Cheetah
  • Best Lyrics – Divine, Naezy, Sez, Spitfire, Ace, and Slow Cheetah
  • Best Male Playback Singer – Ranveer Singh for “Apna Time Aayega”
Javed Akhtar's Initial Doubts About Zoya Akhtar's 'Gully Boy'

Legacy

Gully Boy is considered to be one of the most important films of Indian cinema. It has been praised for its realistic portrayal of urban India and its empowering message for young people. The film has also been credited with popularizing hip-hop music in India.

Fun Facts

  • Ranveer Singh spent months learning to rap for the film.
  • Alia Bhatt took Hindustani classical music lessons for her role.
  • The film was shot in real locations in Mumbai, including the Dharavi slums.
  • The music of Gully Boy was a major success, with several songs becoming chart-toppers.

Conclusion

Javed Akhtar’s initial skepticism serves as a reminder that even the most accomplished individuals have faced doubts and uncertainties. It’s important to persevere through these challenges and never let others’ opinions define your potential.

Gully Boy is a powerful and inspiring film that has touched the lives of millions of people around the world. It is a must-see for anyone who loves music, storytelling, and the power of dreams.

Friends, You may visit my web story section for more trending entertainment news, and upcoming movie trailers.

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