Nandita Das’s Manto is widely regarded as one of the most powerful biopics of recent years. Instead of glorifying the legendary writer Saadat Hasan Manto, the film explores the contradictions, wounds, and humanity within him. Among the many memorable appearances was that of celebrated lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar, who stepped in front of the camera for the very first time.
When the writer wanted to rewrite
In an interview with The Indian Express, Nandita Das revealed that casting a legendary writer as an actor came with its own challenges. She shared that Javed Akhtar initially responded to the script as a writer, not a performer.
“I have known him for many years, so I was obviously very familiar with him.
But of course, when I sent him the script, he wanted to change everything. And I told him, ‘Javed saab, aap actor hai iss mein, you are not the writer. ’ (Javed sir, you are the actor in this, you are not the writer. )”
The moment set the tone for their working relationship. Das wanted authenticity but also needed him to trust her vision.
A creative collaboration without ego
Das emphasized that the process never became a battle of authority. Instead, it evolved into a genuine collaboration.
“But like with any good actor, it was collaborative. So of course, he added a few things, and I stuck to some other things, and then I gave in on something. It’s all for the betterment; it’s not about ego or who wrote what. And finally, it all came together and we created something together.”
She even added a playful touch to the film’s credits. “The fact that he was quite a sport, and for fun I wrote in the credits, ‘Introducing Javed Akhtar,’ just for fun.
And I was like, ‘Dekhiye, acting mein toh maine aapko introduce kiya hai. ’” (See, in acting, I introduced you. ) The gesture reflected the warmth and humour that marked their collaboration.
A natural in front of the camera
Despite being a debutant actor, Javed Akhtar showed no signs of nervousness on set. Years of public appearances had already made him comfortable in front of cameras.
“He was a natural, because he has faced the camera for so long. He has done so many interviews, so he was very comfortable.”
Das also experimented with his look to suit the character. “And then I changed his parting; we did a full look for him, so it was very fun.” The result was a small yet unforgettable performance that added depth to an already rich film.
Manto focuses on the writer’s turbulent years around the Partition of India. It explores his creative brilliance alongside his personal struggles. Nawazuddin Siddiqui leads the film with a deeply immersive performance as Manto, portraying both his vulnerability and defiance.
Rasika Dugal plays his supportive yet burdened wife, Safia. The film also features a remarkable supporting cast including Paresh Rawal, Rishi Kapoor, Ranvir Shorey, Tillotama Shome, Divya Dutta, and Neeraj Kabi.
