Zoya Akhtar

Writer

Date of birth:

9 Jan 1974

Height:

Spouse:

Kho Gaye Hum Kahan

(26 Dec 2023)

Producer, Screenplay, Writer

The Archies

(7 Dec 2023)

Director, Producer, Screenplay, Writer

Gully Boy

(14 Feb 2019)

Director, Producer, Screenplay, Writer

Lust Stories

(15 Jun 2018)

Director

Dil Dhadakne Do

(5 Jun 2015)

Director, Writer

Bombay Talkies

(3 May 2013)

Director, Screenplay, Writer

Talaash

(30 Nov 2012)

Screenplay, Writer

Zee Cine Awards 2012

(5 Feb 2012)

Actor

Herself - Winner Best Director / Best Story

Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara

(15 Jul 2011)

Director, Screenplay, Writer

Luck By Chance

(30 Jan 2009)

Director, Producer, Writer

Costume, Executive Producer

Kaun Banega Crorepati 2

(22 Jan 2007)

Actor

Herself - Guest

Lakshya

(18 Jun 2004)

Executive Producer

Kama Sutra

(6 Feb 1998)

Actor

Rasa Devi's Courtesan

Awards

2020

Palm Springs International Film Festival
()

2020

Filmfare Awards
(Best Film)

2020

Filmfare Awards
(Best Director)

2020

Screen Awards, IN
(Best Director)

2020

Zee Cine Awards
(Best Director)

2020

Critics' Choice Film Awards, India
(Best Director)

2020

Screen Awards, IN
(Best Film)

2020

Zee Cine Awards
(Best Film)

2020

Filmfare Awards
(Best Music Album)

2020

Filmfare Awards
(Best Screenplay)

2020

Awards of the International Indian Film Academy
(Best Story)

2020

ETC Bollywood Business Awards
(The 100 Crore Club)

2019

Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival
(Best Asian Film)

2019

FOI Online Awards
(Best Direction)

2019

FOI Online Awards
(Best Director)

2019

Asian Academy Creative Awards
(Best Feature Film)

2019

Indian Film Festival Of Melbourne
(Best Film)

2019

Jagran Film Festival
(Best Writing)

2012

Filmfare Awards
(Best Director)

2012

Zee Cine Awards
(Best Story)

2010

Filmfare Awards
(Best Debut Female)

News

'Don 3': Farhan Akhtar announces Kiara Advani to star opposite Ranveer Singh

20 Feb 2024

The director of the movie took to Instagram to make the announcement.View this post on InstagramA post shared by Excel Entertainment (@excelmovies)He captioned it, "Welcome to the Don universe @kiaraaliaadvani #Don3."Soon after Farhan shared the post, industry friends flooded the comment section with red hearts and fire emoticons.Zoya Akhtar dropped heart emojis.Shibani Dandekar dropped the dancing girl and heart emojis.Earlier in August 2023, Farhan revealed that Ranveer Singh will be the new Don in the third film of the hit franchise with a special announcement video.In the teaser, Ranveer is seen seated in a building with his back to the camera. He lights up a cigarette, introduces himself as Don, and then turns to face the camera.He wears a leather jacket and matching pants for the dapper look and accessorizes it with leather boots and matching sunglasses.Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan played the character in the earlier versions.An official announcement for the remaining cast of 'Don 3' is still awaited.The 'Don' series has always been associated with compelling stories, exhilarating action, and unforgettable moments.'Don' starred Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra and Boman Irani in prominent roles. The film was released in 2006 and won Best Asian Film at the Neuchatel International Fantastic Film Festival. Later, its sequel was released in 2011 and was declared a hit.Actor Hrithik Roshan was seen in a special appearance role in 'Don 2'.Farhan's directorial was a remake of 1978's 'Don', featuring Amitabh Bachchan in the lead role.A new era of Don will begin in 2025.

Farhan Akhtar gets nostalgic as 'Luck By Chance' clocks 15 years

30 Jan 2024

View this post on InstagramA post shared by Farhan Akhtar (@faroutakhtar)Sharing the video, he wrote, "15 years of luck, chances and lots of memories. Celebrating #15YearsofLuckByChance."Did You Know it took Zoya Akhtar 7 years to make her first film - the Cult Classic, Luck By Chance which completes 15 years today?'Luck By Chance', a timeless classic directed by then debut director, Zoya Akhtar continues to captivate audiences even today, not to mention the film has also earned widespread critical acclaim for its unique narrative and impeccable storytelling.Zoya Akhtar, making her mark as a director, showcased her visionary prowess, setting the stage for the remarkable career she has.Zoya took her 7 years straight to get the film started. She approached 6 actors to play the lead part and faced rejection from them all. She passed those years assisting other directors and working as a casting director. Finally, her brother and actor Farhan Akhtar took up the part. He garnered immense praise for his performance in the film.'Luck By Chance' revolves around two characters - Sona (Konkona Sen Sharma) and Vikram (Farhan Akhtar) who have come to the city of dreams to make it big in the entertainment industry. While it's been years of Sona struggling as an actor, Vikram chances upon an opportunity to become a male lead in a film. This choice he makes shows how his relationship with his friend and his lover changes.Meanwhile, on the work front, Farhan will be getting back to the director's chair after almost 11 years with a female-oriented road trip film 'Jee Le Zara' which will feature Alia Bhatt, Priyanka Chopra and Katrina Kaif in the lead roles.He announced the film in 2021. The film promises to be another tale of friendship following the lineage of 'Dil Chahta Hai' and 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara'.He will also direct 'Don 3' headlined by Ranveer Singh.

'The Archies' actor Aditi Saigal shares experience of working with Zoya Akhtar, calls it "special debut"

26 Dec 2023

Aditi Saigal, also known as 'Dot' shared her experience of working with director Zoya Akhtar in the film 'The Archies' and called it a "special debut."Talking exclusively to ANI, she said, "It was such a crazy experience because I've never worked at such a large-scale project with so many different team members coming together and the work being so detailed and so well-researched. Zoya nurtured all seven of us from start to finish. We had a boot camp, as she likes to say. I learned how to dance and how to skate and I think those skills are always going to stay with me. So it was a very special debut."Helmed by Zoya Akhtar, the film also marked the acting debuts of Shah Rukh Khan's daughter Suhana Khan, Amitabh Bachchan's grandson Agastya Nanda, and producer Boney Kapoor's daughter Khushi Kapoor.The film received mixed responses from the audience.'The Archies', a coming-of-age musical that follows the lives of Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead, Reggie, Ethel and Dilton, takes audiences to the fictional hilly town of Riverdale.The film explores friendship, freedom, love, heartbreak and rebellion. It is currently streaming on Netflix.

'The Archies' star Aditi Saigal recalls working in Zoya Akhtar's film

18 Dec 2023

Sharing her experience working in 'The Archies', Aditi said, "I'm thrilled with the overwhelming love The Archies' music is receiving from listeners. Music is a big part of my identity, since I was a songwriter long before I ventured into the film industry. The Archies allowed me to express myself both through music and acting, so naturally it will always be my most cherished project!""I'm thrilled with the overwhelming love The Archies' music is receiving from listeners. Music is a big part of my identity, since I was a songwriter long before I ventured into the film industry. The Archies allowed me to express myself both through music and acting, so naturally it will always be my most cherished project! This album was particularly special for me because I got to work with industry pioneers like Zoya, Javed Akhtar, SEL and Ankur Tewari, as well as indie musicians Tejas and The Islanders. I'm elated that Sunoh ranks among the most-listened songs of 2023! Sunoh held a special place for all of us as it was the first song we drafted and shot. Seeing it come to life on screen and resonate with so many people has been truly heartening," she added.Dot shared that writing songs for films is a hugely different creative process which she has enjoyed thoroughly."Writing for the screen is a vastly different experience from composing in my bedroom or college practice rooms! It's a highly collaborative process where the primary focus is on the narrative. Such opportunities don't come by every day, you know? There was a creative energy that flowed between us, though we all come from different musical backgrounds," she said.'The Archies', a coming-of-age musical, follows the lives of Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead, Reggie, Ethel and Dilton takes audiences to the fictional hilly town of Riverdale. The film explores friendship, freedom love, heartbreak and rebellion. It is currently streaming on Netflix.

"I feel privileged": Adarsh Gourav expresses gratitude for working with Zoya Akhtar in 'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan'

18 Dec 2023

Adarsh Gourav, who is gearing up for his upcoming drama film 'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan', expressed gratitude to producer Zoya Akhtar.Helmed by debutant director Arjun Varain Singh, 'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan' is a 'coming-of-digital-age' story about three friends in their mid-20s navigating life in the world of social media.Adarsh Gourav shared, "I am incredibly grateful to producers and filmmakers like Zoya Akhtar, who believe in actors like me who have carved their own paths. Zoya is a dynamic director with an impeccable eye for talent, and I feel privileged to be a part of her much-awaited project, 'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan'. I find myself lucky to be working and collaborating with such great minds and the fact that they recognise my work and have given me roles like the one in Kho Gaye".Zoya Akhtar, known for her exceptional storytelling and bring out the best in actors, has consistently provided opportunities to talented individuals. Adarsh Gourav's association with Zoya in the upcoming project is highly anticipated by fans and the industry alike."Working with Zoya has been a fulfilling experience, and I am eager to share our collaboration with the audience. 'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan' is a project close to our hearts" added Gourav.Set in Mumbai, this refreshing narrative of three friends is brought to life by the debutant director Arjun Varain Singh and the creative forces, known for exploring different facets of friendship, Excel Entertainment's Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar in collaboration with Tiger Baby's Reema Kagti and Zoya Akhtar.'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan' chronicles the lives of Imaad (Siddhant Chaturvedi), Ahana (Ananya Panday) and Neil (Adarsh Gourav), through the very relatable journey of three best friends together navigating aspirations, relationships and emotions. Bringing their infectious energy from reel to real, the young and dynamic cast helped turn a wall on the bustling street in Mumbai into a vibrant mural capturing their friendship and inviting the crowds to join their journey as they kick off the promotions for the film.'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan' is set to arrive on December 26 on Netflix.

"Betty cooper has my heart": Janhvi lauds sister Khushi's 'The Archies' role

7 Dec 2023

Janhvi Kapoor, who is the biggest cheerleader and doting sister to Khushi, shared a sweet note for her after the release of Zoya Akhtar's 'The Archies'.Janhvi took to Instagram story and shared a poster of the film along with a message.The post read, "Magic today at 1:30 pm only on (netflix_ This beautiful nostalgic world that @zoieakhtar has created. @khushi05k i would always go up in arms if anyone ever hurt you but I think I'd do even more for Betty cooper, she has my heart. And it's only because of the warmth, honesty and charm that you've given her..."She also lauded Suhana Khan, Agastya Nanda and other star cast. "...@suhanakhan2 how fun are you as Ronnie | sparkling on screen and dancing like a dream. @vedangraina the most James dean-esque screen personality I know. How easy, effortless and magnetic.@mihirahuja comic timing is that of a veteran! #agasteya congratulations on such a confident, natural and charming performance! The ladies better be prepared.@yuvrajmenda thank yaaawww for being cute as a button, and making my heart go out to you! @dotandthesyllables can Ethel be my bestfriend??? You were so real and so good!!Congratulations to all of you! The world is yours," Janhvi continued. Boney Kapoor on Wednesday praised his daughter Khushi and said that it has taken him to his "school days".He took to his Instagram handle and lauded work of Zoya Akhtar."Took me back to my school days when Archie's comics were every youngster's favorite past time, the world created by Zoya takes you back to the past, every actor is perfectly cast, the songs are absolutely in tune with Archie's world, the entire crew needs to be complimented, @netflix_in team included for their marketing & choosing to do this project & giving it all. Throughly enjoyed the film, will watch the film again and again just like the one issue of comic I read multiple times till the new issue was out."Helmed by Zoya Akhtar, the film marks the acting debut of Amitabh Bachchan's grandson Agastya Nanda and Shah Rukh Khan's daughter Suhana Khan.'The Archies', a coming-of-age musical, follows the lives of Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead, Reggie, Ethel and Dilton takes audiences to the fictional hilly town of Riverdale. The film explores friendship, freedom love, heartbreak and rebellion.Meanwhile, on the work front, Janhvi will be next seen in 'Mr and Mrs Maahi' alongside actor RajKummar Rao.Earlier, Dharma Productions took to their official Instagram and announced the new release date.Along with the post, they wrote, "Two hearts chasing one dream & it's just pitch-er perfect! The field is set for #MrAndMrsMahi, coming to cinemas on 19th April 2024."'Mr and Mrs Mahi' is a sports drama. The film marks Janhvi and RajKummar's second collaboration after 'Roohi'. The film is directed by Sharan Sharma, who made his directorial debut with 'Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl'.Janhvi will also be seen in the Pan-India film 'Devara' along with Jr NTR and Saif Ali Khan.

"Met the King": Vir Das shares picture with Shah Rukh Khan from 'The Archies' premiere

6 Dec 2023

Vir Das on Tuesday attended the grand premiere of Zoya Akhtar's film 'The Archies' at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre in Mumbai.Several celebs including Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Ranveer Singh, Ranbir Kapoor among others marked their presence at the gala night.Taking to Instagram, on Wednesday, Vir shared a monochrome picture with Shah Rukh Khan from the event which he captioned, "Met the King," followed by a crown, joined hands, and a red heart emoticon.In the candid picture, SRK is seen hugging Vir.The stand-up comedian recently made history at the International Emmy Awards 2023, as he bagged the award for stand-up special 'Vir Das: Landing' in the Comedy category.Talking about winning at the International Emmy Awards, Vir expressed his excitement and said, "I have immense gratitude, holding the International Emmy for Best Comedy for 'Vir Das: Landing.' This one is for my team and for Netflix without whom this wouldn't have been possible. This journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, and to win this accolade for my fifth special with Netflix feels like a culmination of passion, perseverance, and the undying support of people around the globe who have given so much love to "Vir Das: Landing".He added, "This award is not just a recognition of my work but a celebration of the diverse stories and voices from India. Stories that make us laugh, reflect, and, most importantly, unite. This one is for India, for Indian comedy and for the community of artists at large."'The Archies', helmed by Zoya Akhtar, marks the acting debut of SRK's daughter Suhana Khan, Amitabh Bachchan's grandson Agastya Nanda and producer Boney Kapoor's daughter Khushi Kapoor.'The Archies', a coming-of-age musical, follows the lives of Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead, Reggie, Ethel and Dilton who will take audiences to the fictional hilly town of Riverdale. The film explores friendship, freedom love, heartbreak and rebellion.The film is all set to stream on the OTT platform Netflix from December 7.

Kareena misses 'The Archies' screening, sends best wishes to team

5 Dec 2023

"Good luck team Archies!! Kill it everyone And my favourite Zoya ...Can't wait to watch..So sad to not be there - night shoots..This is only the beginning of an amazing ride," she wrote.Helmed by Zoya Akhtar, 'The Archies' marks the debut of Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan's daughter Suhana Khan, late Sridevi and producer Boney Kapoor's daughter Khushi Kapoor, Shweta Bachchan and Nikhil Nanda's son Agastya.The film is a coming-of-age musical, which follows the lives of Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead, Reggie, Ethel and Dilton who will take audiences to the fictional hilly town of Riverdale. The film explores friendship, freedom, love, heartbreak and rebellion.From Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan to Shah Rukh Khan, Rekha, Sonali Bendre, Karan Johar, who's who of Bollywood attended the screening of 'The Archies', which will be out on Netflix on December 7.

Navya Naveli Nanda turns cheerleader for Agastya ahead of 'The Archies' release

5 Dec 2023

Amitabh Bachchan's granddaughter Navya Naveli Nanda turned cheerleader for her brother Agastya Nanda, who is all set to make his acting debut with Zoya Akhtar's directorial 'The Archies'.She took to her Instagram stories to share some adorable pictures with him from their childhood days. In one of the pictures, Agastya is seen planting a kiss on his sister's cheek. She wrote in the caption, "Archie's big day tomorrow"Another throwback picture shows them posing together lovingly. "1 day to premier night. Let's do this, junior," she wrote.Helmed by Zoya Akhtar, the film marks the acting debut of Amitabh Bachchan's grandson Agastya NandaShah Rukh Khan's daughter Suhana Khan and producer Boney Kapoor's daughter Khushi Kapoor.'The Archies', a coming-of-age musical, follows the lives of Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead, Reggie, Ethel and Dilton who will take audiences to the fictional hilly town of Riverdale. The film explores friendship, freedom love, heartbreak and rebellion.The trailer unfolds a musical narrative led by seven charming characters from the beloved Archie comics, steering through the retro alleys of love, friendship, and youthful aspirations.The trailer signs off with a profound message - 'You are never too young to change the world'.The film is all set to stream on the OTT platform Netflix from December 7.

Zoya Akhtar opens up about sequel to 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara'

4 Dec 2023

Zoya Akhtar, who made her breakthrough with the comedy-drama 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara', said that the movie holds a special place in her heart and she would love to come up with its sequel.When asked if she is planning to make a sequel of 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara', she told ANI, "Yes, this comes up all the time and everybody is interested. The producers are interested, the actors are interested and we are interested. That movie meant a lot to us. So, if we find that soul for part two, we will make it. We don't want to do it just for money. When the audience comes to watch the second part they will have a certain expectation and we must give it to them, otherwise they won't be happy." Zoya is known for associating herself with different kinds of stories ranging from psychological crime thriller 'Talaash: The Answer Lies Within', family drama 'Dil Dhadakne Do' or musical drama 'Gully Boy'Sharing the criteria behind her distinct and interesting projects, she added, "What comes to my mind is one is that a story and an arc. I also think about what I want someone to feel or say. Let me talk about 'Gully Boy'. It is a rags-to-riches story on the surface. It is a story about a rapper from Dharavi who makes it. But at the end of the day, what I want to show is the class system. For me, 'The Archies' is about idealism. It's the ideal world. It's your dream world. When you watch it, you want to be like, 'Yeah, I wish life was like this and I lived here.' When we were growing up, we had very few things but the people were happy. That is the feeling I wanted to capture."She has several projects in the pipeline including 'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan' and 'Jee Le Zaraa'. Talking about the same she said, "For 'Jee Le Zaraa' we are waiting for the dates to align. While 'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan' is coming before the New Year. We have written and produced it. It is directed by Arjun Varain Singh and it's a very relevant film."