Superstar Shah Rukh Khan, recipient of the Padma Shri, launched a book commemorating the career of celebrated lyricist and scriptwriter Javed Akhtar.

"Talking Songs", filmmaker Nasreen Munni Kabir's book, contains conversations with Akhtar on Hindi and Urdu poetry as well as the lyricist's own poetic development.

Excerpts from the extended and engaging conversations were read out by Akhtar and Kabir at the city's Crossword bookstore. Akthar's wife, actress and parliamentary member Shabana Azmi, also spoke at the event.

The book includes a selection of sixty film songs written by Akhtar that are a reminder of his excellence as a lyricist. English translations are also provided for those unfamiliar with Hindi and Urdu.

Indian film songs have an enormous impact and form a vital part of national culture. Kabir's book provides a rare insight into the thought behind the songs heard in billions of Indian homes. It will appeal to Hindi film and music fans in India and abroad.

"Although some Hindi films have weak scripts and plots, when it comes to songs, I find they are more imaginative.

"In Indian film songs, heroes and heroines can behave outside social limitations. They are free of moral constraints," tells Kabir.

The London-based author, who is a board member of the prestigious British Film Institute, has also made the documentary "The Inner World of Shah Rukh Khan".