Tarkash

Plain forward.

I had come across this small(possibly edited) autobiography by Javed Akhtar sometime ago. It has been taken from his collection of poems, Tarkash. Later, one of my dear friends, Rupam also forwarded it to me. Although, one may feel it has abruptly ended, and yearn for more, nevertheless it is not to be missed.

Beautifully written, he describes his dignified struggle against extreme hardships, towards achieving stupendous success. The naughty smile on his face successfully conceals the loss, pain and difficulties he has gone through.

One not only needs talent to succeed, but also the extreme confidence in one's own abilities. What is more striking is the fact that he had set certain ideals for him, which he followed to the core. He could have gone for an easier way, but he had the courage to choose the tough and correct one. It's a learning experience. I wish he would have continued on.

Actually, I wanted to put up a post on him on his birthday, 17th January, but somehow it couldn't materialize. This write up is from the master himself, so as good as it can get. The autobiography is divided in five logical parts. Enjoy.

1. Childhood Days in Lucknow and Aligarh
2. College and hunger in Bhopal
3. Friends, and struggle in Mumbai
4. More struggle and, finally Success
5. End of a revolt, and fame