Exclusive: When Salim Khan Fixed Javed Akhtar’s Marriage With Honey Irani
In a candid conversation with Filmfare, Honey Irani opened up about the unusual way her marriage with Javed Akhtar was set into motion, thanks to Salim Khan, his long-time writing partner.
“Salim Sahab knew my mother from the beginning. He was the hero of a film he had produced for us, so he understood her nature well,” Honey shared. When Javed wanted to propose marriage, it was Salim who stepped in. “So he said, ‘I will speak to her mother, I know how to handle her,’” she recalled.
When Salim approached Honey’s mother, she had her reservations. “She said, ‘She is too young. Her career is just starting.’’’ Salim, in his usual humorous style, added, “That is true – Javed is also still young, does not earn much, and even has a drinking habit.”
Her mother, unimpressed, responded sarcastically, “If that is the case, I will get her married. She will be back in a month.” She laughed it off, saying, “The obsession she has will wear off.”
Despite this rather humorous start, the marriage marked the beginning of a historic cinematic phase. “Right after our wedding, there was a flurry of Salim-Javed hits – Zanjeer, Yaadon Ki Baarat, Trishul, Deewar, Kaala Patthar,” Honey shared.
She also emphasized that there has always been mutual respect between Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar, even after their professional parting and there was never any bitterness.
That goodwill, Honey added, also extended to the next generation as well. Farhan and Zoya Akhtar, and Salim’s sons – Salman, Arbaaz, and Sohail – grew up around the same time and continue to share a warm relationship and there has always been genuine respect and comfort between both families.
Even today, the legacy of Salim-Javed continues to be remembered as a golden chapter in Indian cinema which is still cherished to this day by Bollywood fanatics.
Also Read: Farhan Akhtar spotted with mother Honey Irani and his daughters Shakya and Akira
