Shabana Azmi Teaches Urdu to Makeup Artist in Mumbai

Shabana Azmi, a prominent figure in Indian cinema, is not just known for her remarkable acting skills but also for her impeccable command of the Urdu language. As the daughter of the celebrated Urdu poet Kaifi Azmi and the wife of renowned lyricist Javed Akhtar, it is no surprise that Azmi has a deep-rooted connection with the language. Recently, she captured the attention of many when she took a moment during a makeup session to correct the pronunciation of a makeup artist, Aafreen, in a light-hearted manner.

Aafreen, who hails from Mumbai, shared her delightful experience on social media, recounting how Azmi gently corrected her. The legendary actress humorously stated, "Fool nahi hota, phool hota hai," which translates to "It’s not ‘fool’ but ‘phool.’" She further added, "Fir nahi, phir hota hai," meaning "not ‘fir’ but ‘phir.’" Azmi expressed her wish to help improve the Urdu of those around her, saying, "Kash main tum logo ki Urdu theek kar pati," which means, "I wish I could fix your Urdu." This charming interaction not only showcased Azmi's playful side but also highlighted her passion for the Urdu language.

Aafreen, in her post, referred to Azmi as the "OG Queen" and expressed her admiration, stating, "I learned so much from her and am in awe of the knowledge she has to share with us." This sentiment resonates with many who have had the privilege of learning from Azmi, whether through her films or personal interactions. Her dedication to preserving and promoting Urdu is commendable, especially in a time when languages can sometimes fade into the background.

In a world where language is a vital part of culture and identity, Shabana Azmi's efforts to correct and teach the nuances of Urdu serve as a reminder of the importance of linguistic heritage. Her playful yet educational approach not only brings smiles but also encourages others to appreciate and embrace their linguistic roots. As we navigate through the complexities of modern communication, let us take a page from Azmi's book and strive to keep our languages alive and thriving.