Farhan Akhtar’s Bio, Age, Movies, Career, Family and Net Worth

Farhan Akhtar is one of the most versatile personalities in Indian cinema. He is an actor, director, producer, singer, writer, and television host who has made a remarkable impact on Bollywood over the past two decades

Known for his creative vision and ability to balance art with commercial appeal, Farhan is considered one of the finest multi-talented stars in the industry.

He began his journey as a filmmaker with the critically acclaimed Dil Chahta Hai (2001), which changed the way youth-centric stories were told in Bollywood. Since then, Farhan has gone on to direct, act, sing, and produce numerous successful films.

His performances in movies like Rock On!!, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, and Toofaan have earned him a reputation as one of the most skilled and dedicated actors in the industry.

In this biography, we will explore Farhan Akhtar’s early life, family background, career milestones, achievements, personal life and more.

Also Read: Aditya Roy Kapur’s Bio, Movies, Career, Family, Net Worth & More

Farhan Akhtar’s Early Life and Background

Farhan Akhtar was born on January 9, 1974, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. He belongs to a family deeply rooted in the Indian film and literary world.¹

His father, Javed Akhtar, is one of India’s most celebrated poets, lyricists, and screenwriters. His mother, Honey Irani, is a former actress and screenwriter. His stepmother is the famous actress and writer Shabana Azmi.

Farhan also has a sister, Zoya Akhtar, who is a successful filmmaker known for directing movies like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Luck By Chance, and Gully Boy. Growing up in such a creative environment shaped Farhan’s artistic vision from a young age.

He completed his schooling at Maneckji Cooper School in Mumbai and later joined HR College of Commerce and Economics, but did not complete his graduation. His passion for films and storytelling pushed him toward the world of cinema.

Celebrating 17 years of Rock On!! 🎸@ItsPrachiDesai @rampalarjun @Purab_Kohli @LukeKennyLIVE @shahanagoswami @Abhishekapoor @Javedakhtarjadu @ShankarEhsanLoy @SidhwaniRitesh @J10Kassim @vishalrr @excelmovies pic.twitter.com/1VqVZXHOJ3

— Farhan Akhtar (@FarOutAkhtar) August 29, 2025

Entry into Bollywood

Before making his debut as a director, Farhan Akhtar worked as an assistant director in movies like Lamhe (1991) and Himalay Putra (1997).

He then went on to establish his own production house, Excel Entertainment, along with his friend Ritesh Sidhwani in 1999.

His big breakthrough came with Dil Chahta Hai (2001), a film that he both wrote and directed. The movie was a game-changer for Bollywood, portraying modern Indian youth with realism, humor, and emotion. It went on to win the National Film Award for Best Hindi Feature Film and became a cult classic.

Farhan Akhtar’s Career as a Director

After the success of Dil Chahta Hai, Farhan directed Lakshya (2004), a coming-of-age war drama starring Hrithik Roshan.²

Though not a huge box-office hit at the time, the movie has since been appreciated for its storytelling and strong performances.

He later directed the remake of Don (2006) starring Shah Rukh Khan, which was both a critical and commercial success. Its sequel, Don 2 (2011), was also well received. These films cemented Farhan’s reputation as a director who could handle both content-driven and stylish commercial cinema.

Some of his major directorial works include:

• Dil Chahta Hai (2001)

• Lakshya (2004)

• Don (2006)

• Don 2 (2011)

Acting Career

Though Farhan started as a director, he surprised audiences by turning into an actor with Rock On!! (2008).³

The film became a cult classic, and Farhan’s performance as the lead singer of a rock band was widely appreciated.

Not only did he act, but he also sang several songs, including the iconic Rock On!! title track.

He continued to prove his acting skills with movies like:

• Luck By Chance (2009)

• Karthik Calling Karthik (2010)

• Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011) – which became one of his most loved films.

• Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013) – his career-defining performance where he played Indian athlete Milkha Singh. He underwent rigorous training and received critical acclaim for his dedication. The film was a massive success.

• Dil Dhadakne Do (2015)

• Wazir (2016)

• Toofaan (2021) – where he played a boxer.

Farhan’s acting career reflects his willingness to take on challenging roles and deliver realistic performances.

Also Read: Jacqueline Fernandez’s Bio, Career, Movies, Net Worth & More

Singing and Music Career

Farhan Akhtar is also a talented singer. His husky, soulful voice brought freshness to Bollywood music.

He first showcased his singing talent in Rock On!! (2008), which won the National Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi.

Since then, he has sung in several of his movies, including Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and Rock On 2. He also tours globally with his band, Farhan Live, performing live concerts.

Producer and Entrepreneur

Farhan, along with Ritesh Sidhwani, co-founded Excel Entertainment, which has produced many successful films and web series.⁴

Some notable productions include:

• Dil Chahta Hai (2001)

• Rock On!! (2008)

• Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011)

• Dil Dhadakne Do (2015)

• Gully Boy (2019) – India’s official entry for the Oscars.

Excel Entertainment has also expanded into digital platforms, producing hit series like Inside Edge and Mirzapur.

Awards and Achievements of Farhan Akhtar

Farhan Akhtar has received several awards and recognitions, including:

• National Film Award for Dil Chahta Hai (2001)

• Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut (Rock On!!)

• Filmfare Award for Best Actor (Bhaag Milkha Bhaag)

• Recognition as one of India’s most versatile and respected artists.

Personal Life

Farhan Akhtar married Adhuna Bhabani, a celebrity hairstylist, in 2000. The couple has two daughters, Shakya and Akira. However, they separated in 2016.

In 2022, Farhan married Shibani Dandekar, an actress, singer, and model. The couple often shares glimpses of their life on social media.

Farhan Akhtar’s Stats Table

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Farhan Akhtar (@faroutakhtar)

FAQs About Farhan Akhtar

1. What is Farhan Akhtar famous for?

Farhan Akhtar is famous for being a multi-talented Bollywood personality, actor, director, producer, singer, and writer.

2. Which was Farhan Akhtar’s debut movie as a director?

His debut film as a director was Dil Chahta Hai (2001).

3. Which is Farhan Akhtar’s most successful acting role?

His role as Milkha Singh in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013) is considered his most powerful performance.

4. Who is Farhan Akhtar’s wife?

Farhan Akhtar is married to actress and singer Shibani Dandekar.

5. What is Farhan Akhtar’s net worth?

Farhan Akhtar’s estimated net worth is around $20 million (₹165 crore).

6. Has Farhan Akhtar worked in web series?

While he has not acted in web series yet, his production house Excel Entertainment has produced popular shows like Mirzapur and Inside Edge.

7. Did Farhan Akhtar sing in his movies?

Yes, Farhan Akhtar has sung in Rock On!!, Rock On 2, and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara.

8. How many children does Farhan Akhtar have?

He has two daughters, Shakya and Akira, from his first marriage.

9. What are Farhan Akhtar’s upcoming projects?

Farhan is currently working on Don 3, which is among the most awaited films in Bollywood.

10. Has Farhan Akhtar won any national awards?

Yes, he won the National Film Award for Best Hindi Feature Film for Dil Chahta Hai.

Also Read: Ajay Devgn’s Bio, Age, Family, Movies, Career, Awards and More

1. imbd
2. filmfare
3. timesofindia.indiatimes
4. hindustantimes