Renowned lyricist Javed Akhtar, speaking at the Ajanta Ellora International Film Festival, shared candid thoughts on contemporary films and music, emphasizing the audience’s role in their success.
On ‘Animal’:
Without directly naming Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s film ‘Animal,’ Akhtar expressed concerns about a film where a man asks a woman to lick his shoe, referencing a controversial scene involving Ranbir Kapoor and Triptii Dimrii. He highlighted the danger when such content becomes a super hit.
On Music:
Addressing the shift in music trends, Akhtar reminisced about the ’90s hit song “Choli Ke Peeche” from ‘Khal Nayak.’ He pointed out that despite controversies surrounding its lyrics, the audience’s overwhelming approval made it a massive hit, raising concerns about today’s problematic songs.
On the Audience:
Akhtar placed the responsibility on the audience, stating that they play a crucial role in determining the success of films and music. He urged the audience to be discerning in their choices, emphasizing that their preferences influence the industry’s direction. Akhtar concluded by stating that the values and moralities portrayed in films are ultimately in the hands of the audience.