Farhan Akhtar breaks silence on Honey Irani’s missing credit in DDLJ; says, ‘It was extremely upsetting because...'

Farhan Akhtar

Nearly three decades after Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge released, a long-standing conversation around its writing credits has resurfaced. Farhan Akhtar opened up about the emotional turmoil his mother, veteran writer Honey Irani, faced after not being credited for her contribution to the iconic film’s screenplay.

While Aditya Chopra has always been listed as the sole writer of DDLJ, industry whispers and media reports over the years have highlighted Honey Irani’s extensive involvement during the scripting stage. Her lack of acknowledgement deeply affected her and ultimately led to her decision to never collaborate with Yash Chopra or Aditya again.

Speaking to Mid-Day, Farhan described how the controversy left a lasting emotional impact on his family, particularly because of their close personal bond with the Chopras. He revealed that the situation was not just professionally disappointing, but personally heartbreaking.

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“It was extremely upsetting because they were people I’d known my whole life,” he stated, calling the phase “heart-breaking” on multiple levels. Farhan shared that he grew up alongside Aditya and Uday Chopra, and the fallout created rifts that were difficult for him to process as a young boy. The strain affected familial friendships, widening a gap that took years to mend.

However, with time, Farhan says he, and the families involved, have found closure. Reflecting on the long period of silence, hurt, and distance, he emphasised that healing ultimately mattered more than holding on to old wounds.

“Things happen between people who love each other. At some point you need to forgive and forget,” he reflected. According to Farhan, both families have moved forward with respect, choosing to honour their long-standing bond rather than dwell on what went wrong.

Meanwhile, Farhan Akhtar’s latest film 120 Bahadur is currently earning positive reviews, with audiences praising its storytelling and performances.