An extraordinary tribute has been unveiled in the bustling neighborhood of Bandra, as fans come together to honor the iconic screenwriting duo, Salim-Javed, with a larger-than-life mural. This artistic homage coincides with the launch of the gripping docuseries “Angry Young Men” on Prime Video, spotlighting the monumental contributions of these legends to Hindi cinema.
The mural features majestic portraits of Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar, encircled by titles of their most revered films—”Sholay,” “Seeta Aur Geeta,” “Kranti,” “Trishul,” “Chacha Bhatija,” “Aakhri Daaon,” and “Yaadon Ki Baaraat.” Rendered in the classic vintage Bollywood poster style, the mural bursts with colors and nostalgia, capturing the essence of the ‘Angry Young Man’ archetype, a creation that Salim-Javed masterfully brought to life in their revolutionary storytelling.
The mural not only celebrates their extraordinary films but also the characters and dialogues that have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. Each brushstroke signifies their visionary narratives, unforgettable heroes, and powerful dialogues that have transcended generations, eternally changing the landscape of Bollywood.
The three-part docuseries “Angry Young Men” offers an in-depth journey through the lives of Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar, chronicling their ascent in the film industry. It includes candid interviews with the duo, their family members, and other eminent figures in the industry. In one particularly emotional segment, Akhtar recounts his challenging early days in Mumbai, sharing his experience with raw vulnerability.
Javed Akhtar vividly recalls, “When I was a teenager, life seemed easy, and I felt invincible. I decided after graduating that I’d move to Bombay to become an assistant director, aspiring to work with directors I admired, such as Guru Dutt or Raj Kapoor. I was confident I would soon become a director myself.”
However, the road to success was far from smooth. Akhtar reminisces about his days of sheer struggle: “I slept at railway stations, studio compounds, corridors, and on benches. There were times I had to walk miles from Dadar to Bandra because I couldn’t afford bus fare. I sometimes realized I hadn’t eaten for two days.
. I used to think that when the day came for me to write my autobiography, these struggles would make for an incredible chapter. Never once did I doubt I wouldn’t make it.”
With teary eyes, Akhtar continues to narrate his tough journey: “Deprivation of food or sleep leaves a longstanding impact you can’t forget. Even now, when I lie on a sprawling double bed in a five-star hotel, I recall the cramped third-class train compartments of those days. It used to take over two days to reach Bombay, with no place to sit or even lean against. The fatigue and sleeplessness were overwhelming. Now, when I’m served a lavish breakfast with butter, jam, half-fried eggs, and coffee, I sometimes wonder if I even deserve it. It often feels like this breakfast is meant for someone else, not me.”
Produced by Salman Khan Films, Excel Media & Entertainment, and Tiger Baby, the docuseries is the brainchild of executive producers Salma Khan, Salman Khan, Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar, and Reema Kagti. “Angry Young Men” not only delves into the professional milestones but also the personal trials and tribulations faced by Salim-Javed, offering a comprehensive look at their spectacular careers. The series, now streaming exclusively on Prime Video, is available in India and over 240 countries and territories worldwide.
This mural in Bandra stands as a testament to the unparalleled impact of Salim-Javed on Bollywood. Fans from all corners have contributed to this vibrant piece, reflecting their deep admiration and respect for the duo’s unparalleled creativity and contributions. The larger-than-life portraits and vintage film titles invoke a profound sense of nostalgia and pride, commemorating the duo’s groundbreaking legacy in the realm of Hindi cinema.
In essence, the docuseries “Angry Young Men” and the accompanying mural capture the spirit and times of Salim-Javed, honoring their artistic achievements while transporting audiences back to an era defined by their unique storytelling and timeless cinema. This tribute marks a significant cultural moment, reminding us all of the enduring power and artistry of Salim-Javed’s cinematic contributions.
