MUMBAI: Acclaimed filmmaker, actor, and writer Farhan Akhtar captivated audiences at WAVES 2025 with a deeply personal and insightful masterclass titled “The Craft of Direction.”
Moderated by presenter and host Gaurav Kapur, the session provided a candid look at Akhtar’s journey as a storyteller, from his directorial debut to his thoughts on legacy, discipline, and the future of filmmaking.
Calling WAVES “a very empowering event,” Farhan opened up about the joys and challenges of wearing many creative hats. When asked whether he preferred acting, singing, or directing, he responded with warmth and wit: “It’s like choosing a favourite child,” adding that each role brings its own fulfillment.
Recounting the genesis of Dil Chahta Hai, Akhtar shared the ethos behind the cult classic. “I wanted to write something real, about friendship, about people like us. You shouldn’t imitate others. Audiences can sense when something lacks integrity.”
He emphasized that honesty and empathy remain the cornerstones of compelling storytelling, and urged young creators to embrace failure as part of the process.
Akhtar also spoke about the technical and emotional learning curve during his early days, particularly the use of sync sound in Dil Chahta Hai. “They were used to dubbing. Sync sound made them nervous,” he said, underlining how adapting to evolving technology is crucial for filmmakers.
On his second directorial venture Lakshya, he described the physical toll of shooting in the rugged terrains of Ladakh. Despite facing technical glitches that forced the team to reshoot, Akhtar remained philosophical: “We had to go back. But when we did, we got some of the most stunning shots. Everything happens for a reason.”
Talking about Don, he traced the film’s reimagining to a train ride where he happened to listen to the original score. “What new meaning could I give to Don ko pakadna mushkil hi nahi…? That was the real test,” he said, revealing that Shah Rukh Khan was always in mind for the role.
Throughout the session, Farhan fondly mentioned the role of family—especially his father, legendary writer Javed Akhtar, and sister, filmmaker Zoya Akhtar—as creative guides. “My dad is the most brutal. He’ll just ask, ‘Why are you making this?’” he joked, listing Dil Chahta Hai and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara among his father’s favorites.
On portraying Milkha Singh in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Farhan reflected on the emotional weight of the biopic. “Milkha ji wanted the story to tell the next generation to work hard and focus on skill. That energy pushed all of us.”
To a hall packed with aspiring filmmakers and cinephiles, Farhan left behind words that echoed long after the session ended: “Don’t be a character in someone else’s story. Write your own. And never underestimate the value of discipline.”
