Javed Akhtar on quitting alcohol: Peene ke baad mere mein ek devil nikal aata tha, good I left it

Legendary lyricist and scriptwriter Javed Akhtar has opened up about his battle with alcoholism and the profound impact it had on his life and relationships. In a candid interview on the "Be A Man, Yaar" podcast, Akhtar revealed the dark side of his drinking habits, describing how alcohol turned him into a different person, one he now refers to as a "devil."
Javed Akhtar, known for his iconic scripts in collaboration with Salim Khan and his beautiful lyrics for numerous songs, has always been vocal about his opinions and honest about his life's journey. His openness has often provided a window into the struggles and triumphs that have shaped his illustrious career. In his recent interview, Akhtar delved into his experiences with alcohol and the personal demons he faced during those years.

 
Akhtar confessed that consuming alcohol brought out an aggressive and bitter side of him that was otherwise absent in his sober moments. He explained, "Maybe there were bottled-up emotions, the anger, the bitterness. That is why after drinking, I would become quite offensive, which I’m otherwise not, nor ever was. This would never happen in my sober moments. But peeke koi ek dusra devil nikal aata tha (when I was drunk, a devil would emerge from within me)." His words highlight the inner turmoil and transformation he underwent when under the influence of alcohol.

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The turning point in Akhtar's life came on July 31, 1991, the last time he consumed alcohol. He marked that day as a significant milestone, as it was the beginning of his journey towards sobriety. Reflecting on his decision, he stated, "The few good things I have done in life included quitting alcohol. July 31, 1991, was the last time I drank. I never took a sip of champagne after that. Not even during celebratory cheers." Akhtar's commitment to quitting alcohol not only transformed his personal life but also influenced his professional endeavors, allowing him to pursue his work with a clearer mind and renewed vigor.

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Shabana Azmi, Akhtar's wife, also played a crucial role in his decision to quit drinking. In a previous interview, Azmi recounted a pivotal moment during their time in London. She said, "He knew that if I go on like this, I won’t live for long and I won’t be able to do my work creatively... We were in a flat in London. He was stinking of alcohol and I said ‘Oh my god, this is going to be one of those trips.’ Very quietly he told me ‘Make me some breakfast’. He had breakfast and after that, he told me, ‘I am not going to drink anymore’." Her support and concern for his well-being were instrumental in his decision to embrace sobriety.
Akhtar's journey serves as a powerful testament to the challenges and rewards of overcoming addiction. His story is a reminder that even those who appear to have it all can struggle with personal demons and that seeking help and making positive changes can lead to a better, more fulfilling life.
When asked what advice he would give his younger self, Javed Akhtar replied, "I would tell him that the 20-25 years he drank alcohol, he shouldn’t do that." His reflections underscore the importance of self-awareness and the impact that choices, especially those related to health and well-being, can have on one's life trajectory.
Akhtar's openness about his struggles and triumphs provides valuable insights for anyone facing similar battles. His journey from the depths of alcoholism to a life of sobriety and success is an inspiring example of resilience and the power of making positive life changes.