India, Aug. 7 -- Lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar was at his wittiest best on Wednesday as he spoke on Guru Dutt's films at a panel discussion ahead of the premiere of the restored version of Pyaasa in Mumbai. The 1957 film is considered the late filmmaker's finest and one of the greatest Indian films ever made. Recalling his first introduction to Guru Dutt's cinema at the event, Javed Akhtar threw some jibes at others in his trademark style.

The panel discussion kick-started the centenary celebrations of Guru Dutt, during which some of his most iconic films are being restored and re-released in theatres this weekend. The event, organised by Ultra Media and Entertainment Group, the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and t...