Javed Akhtar turns 81 in 2026, marking yet another milestone in a career that has shaped decades of Indian cinema. Akhtar is widely regarded as an icon in Indian cinema; his brilliance goes far beyond just writing iconic Bollywood films. While his contribution as a lyricist and screenwriter is definitely unmatched, it’s his sharp wit and fearless opinions that continue to keep him relevant across generations.
From penning timeless classics to going viral for speaking his mind without filters, Javed Akhtar remains a force to be reckoned with. As we celebrate this living legend, let’s rewind to some of the iconic films he wrote and the dialogues that still feel relevant and endlessly quotable today.
Iconic Movies Co-Written By Javed Akhtar
Sholay
A film that has truly stood the test of time,
Sholay remains unmatched even today. From its unforgettable characters and iconic dialogues to its gripping story, the film’s fan following is unparalleled. Behind this timeless classic were the legendary writers Salim Khan–Javed Akhtar. Even after 50 years, Sholay continues to be a cult classic, and much of that credit goes to its masterful writing.
Zanjeer
Cop films have always been one of Bollywood’s strengths, and the trend arguably began with the iconic film Zanjeer. While Amitabh Bachchan’s commanding screen presence is undeniably powerful, it is the sharp and hard-hitting dialogues written by Salim–Javed that truly give weight to his character.
The legendary screenwriter duo is at their finest here, elevating the film with their trademark intensity and impact. It also cemented Amitabh Bachchan’s image as the “Angry Young Man.”
Deewaar
Starring Amitabh Bachchan and Shashi Kapoor, this evergreen film remains memorable for its powerful dialogues, many of which are still quoted today. Salim–Javed’s sharp writing played a crucial role in shaping its lasting impact, proving once again how essential a strong screenplay is to a great film.
Don
Starring Amitabh Bachchan, Zeenat Aman, and Pran Sikand among others, Don became iconic for its unforgettable dialogues, memorable songs, and gripping plot; elements that remain just as legendary today. This timeless appeal is owed to the brilliance of the legendary writing duo Salim–Javed, who crafted the classic back in 1978.
Mr. India
Many of the most iconic films of the 70s and 80s were shaped by one legendary writing duo, Salim–Javed. Mr. India stands as a shining example, a landmark film that broke records and became truly unforgettable. It went on to define the careers of Anil Kapoor and Sridevi, marked a major milestone for director Shekhar Kapur, and once again showcased the unmatched brilliance of the writing legends.
Lakshya
After parting ways with Salim Khan, Javed Akhtar began his journey as an independent writer. One of his most notable works from this phase was Farhan Akhtar’s directorial Lakshya. The film told a hard-hitting story of a young man who starts lazy and directionless, but finds purpose and discipline after joining the army. Once again, Javed Akhtar’s writing was widely appreciated for its depth, emotional arc, and powerful character development.
Dil Dhadakne Do
Although Farhan Akhtar wrote most of the dialogues for Zoya Akhtar’s film, it was Pluto the dog’s iconic lines that came from Javed Akhtar’s pen. And unsurprisingly, the dialogues, delivered by Aamir Khan, turned into some of the most powerful and unforgettable moments of the film, leaving a lasting impact well beyond the screen.
Javed Akhtar’s Most Powerful Dialogues That Still Hit Hard
- Jab tak baithne ko na kaha jaaye, sharaafat se khade raho. Yeh police station hai, tumhare baap ka ghar nahi. – Zanjeer (1973)
- Jaante ho duniya ka sabse bada bojh kya hai? Budhe baap ke kandhe pe jawaan bete ka janaza. – Sholay (1975)
- Basanti inn kutton ke saamne mat nachna! – Sholay (1975)
- “Aaj mere paas bangla hai, gaadi hai, bank balance hai, kya hai tumhare paas?” “Mere paas maa hai. – Deewaar (1975)
- Main aaj bhi fenke hue paise nahi uthata. – Deewaar (1975)
- Don ka intezaar toh gyaarah mulkon ki police kar rahi hai. – Don (1978)
- Don ko pakadna mushkil hi nahi, namumkin hai. – Don (1978)
- Mogambo khush hua! – Mr. India (1987)
- Iss desh ke 100 crore insaan jo iss vishwas ke saath sote hain ki main aur tum jaag rahe hain, yeh vishwas bhot badi izzat hai aur bohot badi zimmedari bhi. – Lakshya (2004)
- Yeh reet khaas taur se humare Mulk mein hai ki shaadi ke baad beti parayi ho jati hai. Beta kitni bhi shadi kar le, apna hi rehta hai. – Dil Dhadakne Do (2015).
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