Javed Akhtar discusses his battle with alcohol: 'I used to drink 18 bottles of beer'

Lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar has always been candid about his personal struggles, and his battle with alcohol addiction is no exception. Known for his outspoken nature, Akhtar recently discussed his journey with alcohol, shedding light on how an allergy to whiskey led to a beer addiction and eventually a shift to rum.

In a conversation with Mid-day, Akhtar revealed that his allergy to whiskey was the starting point of his alcohol consumption. “I got allergic to whiskey. Then, I thought that I must have only beer. However, I used to drink 18 bottles of beer in only one sitting,” he shared, reflecting on his excessive consumption during that period. The lyricist admitted that the growing physical effects of his drinking, such as increasing belly fat, eventually prompted him to reconsider his choices. “Fir mujhe laga ki yaar yeh kya pet phoola raha hun main apna (Why am I increasing my belly fat with beer)? So, I quit it and started drinking rum,” he added.

Akhtar also spoke about how his addiction wasn’t dependent on having company. He revealed that his need for alcohol had become so strong that he would drink alone if no one was around. His frankness about the extent of his dependence highlighted the severity of his struggle during that phase of his life.

This was not the first time Akhtar opened up about his battle with alcohol. In an earlier appearance on Satyameva Jayate, he admitted to being addicted to alcohol since he was 19. He recalled how his drinking began casually after he moved to Mumbai post-graduation but gradually escalated into a full-blown addiction. “I struggled financially in the initial days, but later, when I got ‘enough money,’ I used to drink 1 bottle daily,” he said, showing how his circumstances influenced his dependence on alcohol.

Javed Akhtar also acknowledged the toll his addiction took on his personal life, especially his first marriage to Honey Irani.

I regret the failure of my first marriage. It could have been saved. But it was my irresponsible attitude, my drinking… When you are drunk, you take impulsive decisions, you start fighting about certain things which are not such big issues. Ye sab galtiyaan toh hui hai mujhse

- Javed Akhtar

Shabana Azmi, Akhtar’s current wife, has also spoken about the difficulties she faced due to his alcoholism. She revealed, “It was very difficult. He had decided that he wouldn’t be able to live longer and do creative work anymore if he didn’t quit drinking like this.” This statement underscores the gravity of Akhtar's situation and the support he received from his loved ones during his recovery.

Javed Akhtar's openness about his alcohol addiction offers a raw and honest perspective on the challenges of overcoming personal demons. His story is not just about addiction but also about self-awareness, accountability, and the long road to redemption.