5 Books Highly Recommended By Javed Akhtar For A Great Read

Javed Akhtar, the renowned poet, lyricist, and screenwriter, is a man of immense depth and wisdom. His words have resonated with millions, painting vivid pictures with their poignant beauty and profound introspection. But did you know that Akhtar is also an avid reader, with a voracious appetite for literature that has shaped his own creative genius?

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Here are 5 books recommended by Javed Akhtar:

1. Ghalib Lyrical Love Poetry

Akhtar has openly declared his admiration for Mirza Ghalib, the Urdu poet whose verses brim with emotional intensity and philosophical musings. Ghalib's exploration of love, loss, and the human condition deeply resonates with Akhtar, influencing his own poetry and shaping his understanding of language as a tool for conveying complex emotions.

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2. In Search of Lost Time by Marcel Proust

This monumental work by Proust, exploring memory, consciousness, and the passage of time, holds a special place in Akhtar's literary treasure trove. The characters, introspective monologues, and the exploration of human experiences across time resonate with Akhtar's own fascination with the complexities of human emotions and the fleeting nature of existence.

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3. Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky

Dostoevsky's psychological masterpiece, delving into the depths of guilt, morality, and redemption, has captivated Akhtar for years. The protagonist Raskolnikov's inner turmoil, his philosophical justifications offer a thrilling exploration of the human psyche, something that deeply intrigues Akhtar as a writer.

Amazon/ Javed Akhtar recommendations

4. One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garc¨ªa M¨¢rquez

The story of the Buendia family, spanning generations and blurring the lines between history and myth, has inspired Akhtar's own exploration of storytelling, reminding him of the boundless possibilities of language and imagination.

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5. The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov

This satirical gem by Bulgakov, blending social commentary with fantastical elements, has tickled Akhtar's funny bone and challenged his perspective. The story's subversive humour, its portrayal of Soviet Russia, and its exploration of themes like love, creativity, and the power of storytelling find an echo in Akhtar's own work, where wit and social commentary often go hand in hand.

Amazon/ Javed Akhtar recommendations

So, pick up one of these books, settle down with a cup of chai, and let Javed Akhtar guide you through a world of words, emotions, and ideas. You might just be surprised by the richness you discover.