Nestled amidst the verdant hills of Khandala lies "Sukoon," the tranquil home of Javed Akhtar and Shabana Azmi. The celebrated couple recently offered a glimpse into their personal haven, revealing a space that reflects their artistic sensibilities and shared history. A recent house tour, led by filmmaker Farah Khan, showcased the farmhouse's blend of vintage charm and understated elegance, quickly captivating audiences.
Acquired approximately 15 years ago, the property immediately charmed Azmi and Akhtar with its existing 150-year-old tree. That tree became the heart around which "Sukoon" was built. The sprawling estate is enveloped by dense greenery and towering trees, creating a serene and private atmosphere. The expansive garden is adorned with white marble statues and features a central fountain, adding to the property's aesthetic appeal.
The bungalow's architecture exudes a simple, old-style charm. The house opens into a large foyer with a high wooden roof, creating a welcoming ambiance. The interiors are characterized by vintage furniture and understated decor, reflecting the couple's refined taste. The drawing room houses several artifacts collected during Azmi and Akhtar's travels around the world, each piece telling a story of their journey together. Large windows and doors connect the interior spaces to the outdoors, allowing natural light to flood the rooms.
The backyard holds special significance for the family, as it served as the venue for Farhan Akhtar and Shibani Dandekar's wedding. It features a simple wooden table and benches crafted directly from tree trunks, creating a rustic and intimate setting. The kitchen boasts a wooden worktop adorned with metal pots and bowls, adding to the farmhouse's vintage aesthetic.
The creation of "Sukoon" wasn't without its share of disagreements. Shabana Azmi initially envisioned a modest cottage for their weekend retreat, while Javed Akhtar, perhaps drawing from his past struggles, dreamt of something more substantial. As Azmi jokingly stated in Farah Khan's vlog, she eventually understood that the house represented a "victory lap" for Akhtar, a testament to his journey from sleeping on footpaths to owning a lavish home. Akhtar reflected on his early days in Mumbai, recalling times of financial instability and uncertainty. He shared how he wrote his poem "Bhook" during a period when he had gone without food for three days.
"Sometimes, I wonder if this is happening to me? Only those people have a fantasy who don't have anything in life," Akhtar confessed, acknowledging the profound shift in his circumstances. Despite the grandeur of "Sukoon," he emphasized the importance of remembering one's roots, stating, "You can live in big houses in your life, but there is always that one small room in your life that you always remember". The tour of "Sukoon" offers more than just a glimpse into a celebrity home; it provides a window into the lives, memories, and artistic synergy of Javed Akhtar and Shabana Azmi.