Archive · 16 Jan 2026
Javed Akhtar Discusses Secularism, Bollywood at JLF 2026
Javed Akhtar, a famous poet and lyricist, spoke at the Jaipur Literature Festival.
He talked about how his mother inspired his love for language and writing.
He also shared his thoughts on secularism, saying it should be a way of life, not something you learn in a short time.
Akhtar discussed how Bollywood has changed over the years and how the film industry is now more democratic.
He advised young writers to read a lot before they start writing.
He also joked about various topics, including whether a cockroach goes to heaven or hell.
The session was fun and informative, with Akhtar sharing his wisdom and humor with the audience.
Javed Akhtar discussed his literary influences and the impact of his mother, Safia Akhtar, on his writing.
He emphasized that secularism should be a way of life, not something taught in a short course.
Akhtar shared his views on the evolution of Bollywood, noting that the industry is now more democratic.
He advised young writers to read extensively before they start writing.
Akhtar humorously addressed various topics, including the afterlife of cockroaches and the origins of Urdu.
- Who
- Javed Akhtar, poet and lyricist
- What
- Discussion on secularism, Bollywood, and literary influences at the Jaipur Literature Festival 2026
- When
- Thursday, Jaipur Literature Festival 2026
- Where
- Vedanta Front Lawn, Jaipur
- Why
- To share his experiences, influences, and views on various topics
- Event
- Jaipur Literature Festival 2026
- Speaker
- Javed Akhtar
- Session Title
- Javed Akhtar: Points of View
- Moderator
- Warisha Farasat
- Key Influence
- Mother, Safia Akhtar
- Literary Movement
- Progressive Writers' Movement
- Notable Works
- Sholay (1975), Afreen Afreen
- Venue
- Vedanta Front Lawn, Jaipur
Sources
‘There is no crash course in secularism. it should be a way of life,’ says Javed Akhtar
Secularism can’t be taught through crash courses: Javed Akhtar
Secularism is not about a crash course, says Javed Akhtar at JLF-2026
Javed Akhtar Recalls How Assistant Directors Were Once Disrespected On Sets: 'Today Things Are More Streamlined'
Secularism should be a way of life, says veteran screenwriter Javed Akhtar - Telegraph India
