Salim Akhtar was a prominent Indian film producer and media professional whose career spanned several decades, leaving a significant mark on Bollywood and the broader entertainment industry.
Career in Bollywood
Salim Akhtar began his journey in the Indian film industry in the late 1970s, gaining recognition for producing a series of successful films throughout the 1980s and 1990s. His notable productions include:
- Qayamat (1983)
- Loha (1987)
- Batwara (1989)
- Phool Aur Angaare (1993)
- Baazi (1995)
- Badal (2000)(StarsUnfolded, The Times of India, India Today)
Akhtar is particularly celebrated for launching the careers of renowned actresses Rani Mukerji and Tamannaah Bhatia. He introduced Rani Mukerji to Hindi cinema with Raja Ki Aayegi Baaraat (1997) and Tamannaah Bhatia with Chand Sa Roshan Chehra (2005) .(The Times of India)
Work in Advertising and Media
Beyond filmmaking, Akhtar was deeply involved in the advertising and media sectors. As the founder of TallManVision, he directed numerous high-profile advertising campaigns for major brands such as JW Marriott, Hindustan Unilever, Yahoo India, Zee Network, ICICI Bank, and Tata Chemicals. His creative endeavors extended to directing music videos for legendary artists like Jagjit Singh and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan .(StarsUnfolded)
Personal Life and Legacy
Born in 1943, Salim Akhtar pursued a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Mumbai. He was married to Shama Akhtar and had a son named Samad Akhtar. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm), Akhtar was known for his towering presence both physically and professionally .(StarsUnfolded, India Today)
He passed away on April 8, 2025, at the age of 82, after a prolonged illness. His funeral was attended by several notable figures from the film industry, including Raj Babbar, Raza Murad, and Firoz Khan, reflecting the deep respect he commanded among his peers .(The Times of India)
Salim Akhtar’s multifaceted contributions to Indian cinema and media continue to inspire future generations in the entertainment industry.(The Times of India)
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