Bollywood actor and filmmaker Farhan Akhtar recently shared how a deeply emotional scene from Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (ZNMD) unexpectedly took him back to his childhood. Farhan, who appeared alongside Naseeruddin Shah in the film, said their powerful confrontation scene mirrored his real-life bond with his father, Javed Akhtar, after his parents’ separation.
In an interaction with Galatta Plus, Farhan opened up about shooting the memorable moment that shaped his character’s emotional arc.
‘I Didn’t Have to Pretend’: Farhan on His Natural Reaction in the Scene
Recalling the experience, Farhan said the scene demanded a raw and honest reaction because most of the lines belonged to Naseeruddin Shah.
“I didn’t have that many lines. Naseer Sahab carried the dialogue, and he was incredible. I just had to listen and respond,” he explained. “The tough part was repeating the scene because it had to feel real every time. It couldn’t look like a performance.”
Farhan revealed that they chose not to rehearse the scene to keep the emotions authentic.
“The first few takes felt the most natural because he was speaking to me for the first time,” he added.
ZNMD Scene Reminded Farhan of His Childhood and His Questions About His Father
The actor also admitted that filming the emotional confrontation unintentionally brought back memories of his own younger days.
“In some way, the scene transported me back to my childhood — to the questions I had for my father after my parents separated,” he shared.
Farhan said the feelings surfaced naturally on set, and he didn’t need to force any emotion.
“I remember feeling very emotional while shooting. I didn’t have to pretend at all.”
Farhan Responds to Naseeruddin Shah’s Old Comment About Bhaag Milkha Bhaag
During the interview, Farhan was also asked about Naseeruddin Shah’s earlier remark where he had called Farhan’s performance in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag “completely fake.”
The actor admitted that the comment did hurt.
“It didn’t feel good when I read it,” Farhan confessed. “But you have to take it in your stride. It’s his opinion.”
He added that dwelling on the negativity would not help him grow as an actor.
‘Why Should I Seek Advice From Someone Who Doesn’t Respect Me?’ Farhan Explains
When asked if he ever approached Naseeruddin Shah for advice after the criticism, Farhan clarified why he chose not to.
According to him, constructive criticism must come from a place of empathy and respect.
“I’ve been working for 25 years. If I feel someone’s work could be better, I call them personally and speak with love and respect,” he said.
Farhan felt that Naseeruddin’s comment didn’t come from that place.
“It felt like a statement thrown out publicly. I didn’t feel respected, so why should I reach out to someone who doesn’t respect me?”
Conclusion
Farhan Akhtar’s reflections offer a rare glimpse into the emotional impact of acting, especially when scenes echo real-life experiences. His honesty about his relationship with his father, the authenticity of the ZNMD moment, and his response to criticism highlight his growth as an artist — and his commitment to staying true to himself.
