Mumbai | August 16, 2025 — Actor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar has finally addressed veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah’s old remarks about not being impressed with his acting. The two had shared screen space in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, where Farhan played Shah’s son.

In a recent interview with Galatta Plus, Farhan was asked whether he ever tried to speak to Shah about the criticism. He firmly said no, explaining that constructive feedback must come with “a certain degree of love and respect.”

“Respect Matters”

Farhan elaborated:
“I have been working in films for 25 years. If I feel a colleague’s work could be better, I would call them or meet them to share feedback — but only in a sensitive way. I didn’t feel that his comment came from that place. It just felt like a public statement thrown out there. If someone doesn’t respect you, why should you reach out to them?”

He added that given Shah’s familiarity with his family — Javed Akhtar, Shabana Azmi and his mother — and their work together in ZNMD, it would have been easy for Shah to call him directly if the concern was genuine.

What Naseeruddin Shah Had Said

Back in 2013, Naseeruddin Shah told The Times of India:
“Farhan Akhtar’s films I clearly don’t care for. I liked his first film Dil Chahta Hai. He’s a tremendous person with many talents — he sings, acts, produces and writes. But I’m not a great fan of his acting or his films. Still, I admire him.”

Farhan’s Journey

Son of lyricist-screenwriter Javed Akhtar, Farhan began as an assistant director before directing acclaimed films like Dil Chahta Hai, Lakshya and Don. He later turned to acting with Rock On! and delivered notable performances in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Luck By Chance and Dil Dhadakne Do.

Farhan will next be seen in the upcoming film 120 Bahadur.

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