Shabana Azmi Talks About Dealing With Javed Akhtar's Alcoholism: He Was Stinking Of Liquor

Noted Bollywood screenwriter and lyricist Javed Akhtar has been quite vocal about his battle with depression. Earlier this year, he reflected on his past struggles with alcoholism, acknowledging that it was unhealthy and irrational, causing numerous problems for many people. His wife, veteran actress Shabana Azmi, has now opened up about dealing with that "difficult" phase.

In a chat with Arbaaz Khan for The Invincibles, Shabana recalled a trip that changed everything. She said, “He knew that if he went on like this, he wouldn’t live for long and wouldn’t be able to do his work creatively." Speaking about the day Akhtar finally decided to give up alcohol, she recounted, “We were in a flat in London. He was reeking of alcohol, and I thought, ‘Oh my god, this is going to be one of those trips.’ Very quietly, he told me, ‘Make me some breakfast.’ He had breakfast, and after that, he said, ‘I am not going to drink anymore.’”

The Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani actress added, “I didn’t say anything. I just asked, ‘Means?’ He reiterated, ‘I am not going to drink anymore.’ He had never said this before, and from that day, he has not touched alcohol.”

Praising her husband's courage that helped him fight the battle with addiction, she said, “It is impossible for me to have the kind of willpower he has.”

In a recent interview, Javed looked back on his previous issues with alcohol.

He said that if he had been sober and more responsible, things might have turned out differently. He attributed part of his failed relationship with ex-wife Honey Irani to his battle with alcoholism.

Despite the challenges, he expressed great respect for his former partner, describing her as a wonderful and very nice person. He emphasized that this respect is why they remain best friends today.