25 February,2026 07:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Javed Akhtar
Veteran writer and lyricist Javed Akhtar has shared his thoughts on Anubhav Sinha's latest release Assi. The film was released in theatres on February 20 and stars Taapsee Pannu and Kani Kusruti in the lead roles. According to a report in India Today, the 80-year-old lauded the film, saying that it compels viewers to think.
Javed Akhtar reportedly said, "Some pictures touch your heart. Some films operate on an intellectual level- they engage your mind. But very few films manage to touch both your heart and your mind at the same time. I believe Assi is one such film."
The lyricist added that the film will leave a strong impact on audiences and raise important questions before society. "On one level, it is a deeply emotional story that will resonate with ordinary people. But on another level, it leaves behind some very serious questions. It does not hand out easy answers. Instead, it places those questions before society," he said.
Akhtar further stated that the film has been made in a graceful manner and will make viewers reflect on their surroundings. "Anyone who thinks deeply, who pays attention to what is happening around us, will walk away from this film reflecting on it. It has been narrated in a very graceful and compelling manner. Ultimately, the film leaves you with both answers and questions," he concluded.
Based on harrowing everyday news, Anubhav Sinha's Assi is a film that makes audiences confront uncomfortable truths often ignored. Alongside Taapsee and Kani, the film features Revathy, Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra, and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, with special appearances by Naseeruddin Shah, Supriya Pathak, and Seema Pahwa.
In an earlier statement, Anubhav Sinha said, "For me, my film has to hit the core of the story. With Assi, it felt like a loud thud exactly where it should. That impact compelled me to make this film. The story draws from everyday news- realities we often choose to ignore. To tell a story like this, Taapsee is a natural; you just take her there and she delivers her best. And with Bhushan Kumar backing a film like Assi, we know we're striking the nail in the right place."
