Javed Akhtar | Photo Credit: India Today Group/Getty Images
Experienced screenplay writer, lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar was awarded the Dostalsi Star Award by Russian House in Mumbai on 6 June. The award has been presented for his role in promoting cultural dialogues and preserving literary heritage.
At the age of 80, Akhtar reflected on the personal importance of receiving an award in the name of one of his early literary influences. “Dostovsky is one of the most respected novelists and journalists. In our Khandla House, his picture at the door of our study is his picture,” he shared. “I don’t think any Indian writer has received the first Dostovsky Star Award.”
As part of Felicitation, a book of Akhtar’s poems translated into Russian by Ramdas Akila was also released during the program. Akhtar, who reads Russian literature in Urdu and English translations, credited writers like Fiodor Dostovski, Anton Chekhov and Maxim Gorky to shape his story sensations. He highlighted mutual praise for a long time between Indian and Russian literary traditions, given how the two cultures have influenced each other through translated works.
Akhtar’s wife, actor Shabana Azmi took the moment to share the moment on social media. Posting a picture of the ceremony, he wrote, “Another great honor for Javed Akhtar, as he received the Dostovski Star Award!
Known for his prestigious contribution to Indian cinema, Akhtar co-written Classics chain, cinder, torchAnd TargetAnd countless Hindi films have also been identified for his lyrical work. Over the years, he has received five National Film Awards for Best Songs, Padma Shri in 1999, Padma Bhushan in 2007 and Sahitya Akademi Award in Urdu for his collection of poetry in 2007. LavaIn 2020, he became the first Indian to receive the Richard Drkins Award for his commitment for rationalism and important views.
Published – 09 June, 2025 10:51 am IST