He is known as someone who likes to constantly work, and at his speed. Probably that’s why even when the Coronavirus pandemic halted the entire country, including the Hindi film industry, in its tracks, Akshay Kumar continued shooting for ad films, public service messages and feature films. But the actor wants everyone to be careful. “We have to listen to the professionals but also look after our livelihoods and family the best way we can. Unfortunately, the country is in a terrible predicament. I wish more could be done, and I also feel sorry for all those who are suffering mentally and physically,” he says. Excerpts from an interview:

I was concerned, but not afraid. Also, I was lucky enough to work with a very ‘family-oriented’ production company [the makers of his new film, Bellbottom] who I knew would look after their entire cast and crew like they were their own. Despite the pandemic, they made it the cleanest, safest and most disciplined working environment I’ve ever witnessed. They took care of every concern my family or I may have had. I’m eternally grateful that they helped not only keep me safe – on as well as off sets – but also my family and the entire unit.

My wife (Twinkle Khanna), who was extremely strict through the first phase of lockdown, has been understanding and supportive about my post-lockdown travels. What has amazed me is that it’s my teenage son (Aarav) who has been the most worried about me entering the house. Be it washing my hands, not touching anything or anyone until I’m scrubbed clean, or asking me to wear my mask even before I’ve left the house, he has been really strict. I’m trying to take it as a huge compliment that it’s because he loves me, and not because it’s a perfect opportunity for him to discipline his father. Though, I must admit sometimes, it feels more like payback than love (laughs).

It’s been the strangest year of my career, as I have had so many films ready but no place to release them. I’ve put everything into those films, but still, you can’t even watch them. It’s a kind of bitter pill to swallow that a virus has shelved the last few years of hard work, but I will not pity myself. I’m lucky to not only be safe and healthy but to still have a job and a roof over my head. My small problems are so insignificant compared to what many are experiencing now.

At this point, I don’t care how much I personally miss seeing films releasing in theatres; I’m extremely thankful to have OTT platforms and reruns galore [of my films] on TV to keep fans entertained through these dark times. I have nothing to complain about. Yes, it’s a shame to not have films out on the big screen, but time is all we need. This isn’t [going to last] forever, we’re all in this together.

As an actor, it is not really my place to say whether the country should restart in a big way or not. In fact, it’s extremely important that all those people, who have any kind of influence on others, abide by health and safety rules just to guide others to be safe. They can do it especially for those who are more vulnerable. Trust me, this virus is no joke, I’ve had enough extended family members admitted to hospital to know that how severe it is, let alone how many industry people we have lost this year.