This year has been nothing short of a victory lap for Akshay Kumar. After back to back hits with Bhooth Bangla and Welcome To the Jungle , the actor, far from resting on his laurels, is diving into uncharted territory in Priyadarshan’s next, Haiwaan. In a chat with HT City, Akshay talks about his transformation for the role, reuniting with Saif Ali Khan and why taking risks is the only way he knows how to operate. Excerpts:

To be honest it was a huge relief, I find playing villains so fascinating, I always have. I feel they get to play way more interesting characters than Heroes do. Heroes most of the time have to be perfect, they can only be good, do good & come across as influential role models. Me, I like to be challenged, easy is nice but it’s also boring (sometimes,) shooting with Priyadarshan for the last 2 years has given me so much new found love for my work, he is like medicine for the working side of my soul.

Saif and I have shared the screen quite a few times over the years, and I think we’ve been fortunate that audiences have enjoyed us together whether it was Main Khiladi Tu Anari, Yeh Dillagi, Keemat etc. There has always been a certain familiarity between us, we were often on the same side, playing off each other’s energy, humour and camaraderie. But Haiwaan is definitely a role reversal for us. This time, we’re on opposite sides, and that changes the dynamic completely. Saif is the hero, I’m the villain, so instead of trying to help each other get out of trouble, we’re trying to create as much trouble for each other as possible! We know each other well enough to push each other in a scene, and Priyan sir has used that familiarity in a very different way this time. I think audiences who have enjoyed our earlier films will have fun seeing us together in this completely new equation.

NEVER... I find Priyadarshan a film making genius, he is a very rare director who can wear more than one hat, he has a talent in the dark side of the lens too, we are all witness to that in the original Bhool Bhulaiyaa. Which is why I felt this was a perfect combo between me, Saif and Priyan Sir, I personally couldn’t wait to jump on his idea. Rather than throwing fans off, it gives them a chance to enjoy us back to back in the same year without anything being repetitive.

This isn’t the first time this has happened. For instance, Toilet: Ek Prem Katha’s script was circulating for a couple of years and had been rejected by many actors before it came to me. I don’t really look at a role and think about who has said no to it. For me, the more interesting question is whether the character takes me out of my comfort zone as an actor, because that usually means there is something worth exploring.

In fact, Haiwaan came to me more by chance than by choice. I was shooting with Priyan sir for Bhooth Bangla when we happened to discuss what he was making next. I was the one who coaxed him into telling me more about the story, and that conversation eventually led to me being part of the film. What drew me to the character was the idea of making the audience uncomfortable with me. They’ve spent so many years watching me as the good guy, so this time, hopefully, they’ll find themselves wondering what I’m going to do next.

Honestly, my fan clubs have a lot more imagination than I give them credit for! Maybe they know something… or maybe they just don’t trust me to stay negative for two and a half hours! I think they’re so used to seeing me save the day that old habits die hard. But this time, with Haiwaan, Priyan sir has given me the opportunity to surprise people and explore a completely different side of myself. All I can say is that Haiwaan has been designed to keep the audience guessing. Saif is the hero and I’m playing the villain, but with Priyan sir, you should never assume you know where the story is going. You’ll get your answer on 11th September.

I love making multi-starrers, always have, there is no need to have insecurities, the more the merrier. Unless one wants to be a stand up comedian of course. I feel sharing space with fellow Heroes and Character Artists is what makes a scene complete. I don’t enjoy being funny on my own as much, it’s why I love a Garam Masala, a Housefull, a Welcome movie, it takes a village to make an audience laugh. Regarding Haiwaan, for me, I get to work every day with my dear old friend Saif, I would choose that opportunity over a solo hero film any day.

Actor Akshay Kumar is riding high on the success of Welcome To The Jungle. At a time when every theatrical release feels like a gamble, the film’s strong box-office run has reaffirmed the actor’s enduring connect with audiences. Equally at home in action and comedy, Kumar sits down for a candid chat, making one thing clear at the outset: “Dekh, main dil se bolunga jo bolunga, headline ya TRP ke liye nahi.” Excerpts:

That I have some secret machine at home that produces four films a year! But it’s all about time management and discipline. Another misconception is that because I’ve been around for more than three decades, everything comes easy to me now. It doesn’t. Every Friday still feels like an exam result. Every film still gives me butterflies. The day I stop being nervous or excited about a new project, I think that’s the day I should retire. So no secret formula... just discipline, consistency and still having the hunger of a newcomer.

Being relevant and understanding what audiences want is one of the hardest things to predict. Sometimes you need to give audiences something they didn’t even know they wanted. Following trends doesn’t guarantee success either. The trick is not to be scared. If you believe in something, go for it wholeheartedly. There is no formula, just a lot of guts and prayers.

The most important person I wish to thank for not only today but also the past 20 years is (filmmaker) Anees Bazmee ji. This man is the creator of Welcome, without his genius filmmaking none of the 30+ cast members of Welcome To The Jungle, would be standing here enjoying this weekend, especially me.

The first rule of martial arts is to never forget where you come from… I will cherish Anees ji for what he has given us all and the road he paved for so many of us.

Welcome To The Jungle is quite literally standing on the shoulders of giants. From Anees ji, Ferozji (A Nadiadwala, filmmaker), Anil ji (Kapoor, actor) and Nana ji (Patekar, actor) and now my friend Ahmed (Khan, director of Welcome To The Jungle).

Just two words: Jai Mahakal!

That you can’t always trust your instincts. Sometimes you can love, admire and be excited about a project, yet it simply doesn’t connect with the audience. But I’m not the kind of actor who is only looking for blockbusters. There are so many stories to tell and so many talented artistes and technicians to work with. Some of my films over the last five years have been my favourites, and others I’m not sure even my family went to see. But I never stopped trying. Better to be relentless than too scared to make your next hit or flop.

The number of hungry artistes, writers and debut directors getting opportunities excites me. Personally, having come from the background that I have, I still love good old-fashioned action, memorable dialogues and songs you can listen to on repeat. Today everything moves so fast. One minute something is viral, the next minute it’s forgotten. All you can do is try to be the best version of yourself and hope people connect with it.

I do get nervous, but not to the point where I can’t eat or sleep. Give me home-cooked food and a pillow any day of the week and I’m happy. These days, I’m more nervous for everyone else involved in the film. I’ve experienced success, failure, heartache and triumph enough times. I just want the best for everyone around me.

Be authentic. Be original. Don’t try to look, dance or act like someone else. Be a producer’s actor and remember that you’re only as big as your last hit film. Stay humble on your way up, otherwise the fall will be much more painful.

Always have, always will. You never know where the next great idea will come from.

No matter how much you do later, there is no substitute for being present in a child’s life. Luckily, my wife (former actor and author Twinkle Khanna) understands better than anyone, but it’s hard for a child to understand why Daddy has to leave home to entertain others when all he wants is to make them laugh the most.

The earlier Welcome films were madness in a living room. This one is madness in a jungle! We’ve taken the chaos, multiplied it by ten and dropped everyone into the middle of nowhere.

There are helicopters, action sequences, mistaken identities and so many characters that even we sometimes needed a headcount on set. What makes it fresh is that it’s not just a comedy of dialogues anymore. It’s comedy on a much bigger canvas — an adventure-comedy where something goes wrong every five minutes.

There was plenty of laughter, a few life lessons and more than a handful of memorable one-liners when Akshay Kumar and Disha Patani joined us on the Bombay Times Lounge. With fans travelling from far and wide to be part of the show, Akshay had the audience hooked with his stories, humour and spontaneous exchanges, while Disha offered refreshingly honest insights into her journey. The duo will be seen this week in Ahmed Khan’s upcoming ensemble comedy, Welcome To The Jungle. Excerpts.

Akshay: Absolutely. It’s better to make fun of yourself, rather than making fun of other people, if I crack a joke, it’s usually about myself. That way, nobody else feels bad. At many award nights, I often see people get laughs by putting others down. I don’t agree with that.

Akshay: In reality what happens on set is that by the time you’re shooting a scene, you’ve rehearsed it so many times that you’ve already laughed through it. During the actual take, it doesn’t seem funny anymore (to the actors). Then you’re just waiting to see whether the audience laughs. I watched the film the other day and I laughed a lot. Now I’m just waiting to see how the audience reacts.

When I entered the industry, I came here to earn money. I didn’t know anything about cameras or acting. I loved performing stunts. I’d wake up, go to work, and enjoy myself. Initially, people only offered me action films. But over time, I started falling in love with acting. Then I met filmmakers like Priyadarshan, Rajkumar Santoshi, Neeraj Vora, and many others. I started loving characters and wanted to do different roles. I enjoy deconstructing myself. I don’t want a one-dimensional image. I don’t want people to see me only as an action hero or only as a comedian. I want to keep evolving.

Akshay: I work hard, but I take my time off. I get around 120 days off every year. If you are talking about work ethic, yes, you need to have that. I have always said this ki acting 17-20 percent bhi aati hai toh chal jayega, insaan accha hona chahiye. If you want to survive in this industry, it is important to be a good person and if you are punctual, and respectful of your producer’s time — this industry has a lot to offer you. That applies to everyone — character actors, junior artistes, dancers, and everyone else.

I’ve learned to believe in myself more and I believe that you should listen to everyone but ultimately, do what your heart tells you. I trust my intuition much more now. It’s been a beautiful journey. I’ve met wonderful people and made wonderful friends. At the end of the day, it’s about the time you spend with people, and I’ve been lucky to have good people around me.

Akshay: Yes, absolutely. I believe I have seen the world, but yeh samay joh hai, yeh unki aankhon se dekhne ka samay hai because they teach you so many things. For instance, when my son (Aarav) talks about fashion, I’m taken aback by how much knowledge he has at just 23. My daughter (Nitara) uses words that I don’t understand. Sometimes when she is sitting next to me and talking to her friends on the phone…I don’t know what she is talking about. They speak a different language. There’s a lot to learn from the young breed. If you want to survive, then you have to learn from them and learn their language.

My better half (Twinkle Khanna).

Brutal toh kuch bhi nahin hai. She can kill me with her words (laughs). Last week I was dubbing for Priyadarshan sir’s film, and I got a message from her while he was sitting next to me. I told him, Priyan sir, aaj main bahut khush hoon. He asked, ‘Kya hua?’ I said that my wife has sent me a message saying, ‘I loved your trailer.’ I am telling you, I don’t always get such messages. I have done many films where she has come and told me, ‘What rubbish is this?’ (laughs).

There is nothing to react to. I just put my head down and say... okay, I will try next time. Then, if the movie works, she says, ‘I don’t know how it ran.’

I believe that today success is yours, tomorrow it might not be, and someday it could come back. So don’t take success too seriously. Take the day as it comes. Take the week as it comes and just keep on working with utmost honesty.

I don’t think I have ever felt that. Since childhood, I have always felt like an outcast. I never felt like I belonged to one place. In my mind I am a wanderer and I think it is fine to be that way. You don’t always have to belong somewhere.

Ahead of their upcoming ensemble comedy, Welcome To The Jungle, Akshay Kumar and Disha Patani were on the Bombay Times Lounge for a candid conversation packed with laughs, revelations and behind-the-scenes stories from the film. Akshay’s comic timing was as effortless off screen as it is on screen, while Disha brought honesty, warmth and quiet charm to the chat. The promo is out now, and the full episode will drop soon on the Bombay Times YouTube channel. Until then, here’s a sneak peek from the conversation.

I actually do very few films, and I think you should enjoy what you do. One film shouldn’t define your entire journey. If you’re unhappy for six months or a year while making a film, then that one release day won’t mean much. The quality of your time while working matters more than quantity

— Disha on choosing happiness over chasing quantity of work

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I don’t actively post on social media, but I do keep an eye on what’s happening. Things are changing very fast these days. Even Gen Z language has changed. When I talk to my daughter (Nitara), she speaks in an entirely different language. Most of the time, I need her to explain what she’s saying, as they use so many words and phrases which are new to me

— Akshay on keeping up with Gen Z in a rapidly changing world

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Aisa koi din nahi gaya jab maine ugta hua suraj nahi dekha. Even if I have to work till late, I am up at sunrise every day of my life. Yes, I have cheat days when it comes to food, but when it comes to my mornings, that doesn’t change

— Akshay on discipline being a huge part of identity

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The funniest person I’ve met in the industry both on and off camera, was Mehmood saab. I was lucky to get a chance to work with him, though by then he was quite old. The other person who is genuinely hilarious is Johny Lever. And then there’s Asrani saab who has a unique sense of humour. Now, I am seeing Rajpal Yadav in that category

— Akshay on comedy legends who have inspired him

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A lot of what you will see in Welcome To The Jungle was created on the spot. Some of the dialogues were not in the script, they happened spontaneously. You can’t be stuck to the script all the time. Lakeer ke fakeer nahi reh sakte. In such films, you have to let the actors move and say dialogues the way they want. One person says something, another responds, and it keeps building. Comedy moves very fast. If you do it in bits and pieces, it doesn’t work. Comedy has a certain rhythm, it should not slow down

— Akshay on why comedy works best when actors are allowed to improvise

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Being okay with being around people I don’t know. I’m an introvert, so I get very nervous at times.

I think I have become worse (laughs).

Yes, because it’s just one lens looking at you instead of people’s eyes.

It was a regular evening for movie buffs in the Capital — until it wasn’t. The cast of Bhooth Bangla, which is set to release this week, starring Akshay Kumar, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Rajpal Yadav, turned the latest session of Stars in the City into a truly memorable affair as they dropped by HT City’s office in Delhi to promote their upcoming film.

In conversation with Sonal Kalra, Chief Managing Editor, Lifestyle & Entertainment at Hindustan Times, the trio kept things lively with candid conversations, witty banter, and entertaining anecdotes that had the audience thoroughly involved.

Akshay: He has a great past. Priyadarshan has done almost 98 films and world mein aisa koi aadmi nahi jisne itni films banayi hai and out of that 87 are hit. Agar ek word unke liye aata hai, woj hai ‘genius’. I have seen him work. Actually puri kahaani wo batate hain but jo actual kahaani hoti hai, wo unke dimag mein hai. He is an editor by nature and he edits his film’s so far and so beautifully.

Rajpal: I once saw myself drowning when I was a 6-7 years old. I was saved by someone and I thought I am almost gone. I say I have been given life twice, once by my mother and once by Ganga maiyaa. Just like that main uljha pacchaso baar, dooba kabhi bhi nahi because of you guys (fans).

Wamiqa: There was only excitement. I was very lucky. Yej film mere paas aane se kuch mahine pehle maine saari films (of Akshay and Priyadarshan) binge watch ki thi starting from Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007) and De Dana Dan (2009). I called my management and asked, ‘Why are Akshay sir and Priyadarshan sir not working together?’. I love these films, I laughed so hard. They told me ‘no they are coming together after some 14 years for a new film and abhi casting shuru hui hai’. Right after sometime, I got to know that Balaji Films (production house) se call aaya hai and wo narrate karna chah rahe hain ye film. I got called and it was such an overwhelming experience and I was like, well talk about manifestation!”

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"My son shared recently that after watching Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007), he was scared of (actor) Vidya Balan for six years!"

- Akshay Kumar

It was all about actor Akshay Kumar’s witty charm and his Sky Force co-star, debutant Veer Pahariya’s charismatic presence as the duo visited HT City for the Stars in the City session. The actors engaged in a candid conversation with Sonal Kalra, Chief Managing Editor, Entertainment and Lifestyle, Hindustan Times, about the film and their on-screen camaraderie.

Known for being passionate about his craft, Akshay asserted that he is confident in his choice of scripts, even if that means facing criticism for taking on patriotic roles. Talking about this film, the 57-year-old said, “It’s not the same genre. This is a different story. There is nothing similar to Airlift or Rustom (both 2016) or any other film.”

He expressed gratitude at having received the opportunity to portray several films with patriotic undertones. “I’m so lucky that I get a chance to play so many characters. God has been so kind, I got to play Lord Krishna and Lord Shiva... What else can I ask for? If I’m getting such a lovely opportunity, you think I should give it a miss because some people say, ‘Aap deshbakhti ki film kyun karte ho?’ Kyun na kare!”

Meanwhile, Veer was playfully asked about seeking acting tips from actor Janhvi Kapoor, who is now “nearly a family member” since she’s dating his elder brother, Shikhar Pahariya.

“She’s a very talented actress and has played a real character in Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl (2020). That was a biopic as well. She’s experienced. So yes, I did take a lot of advice (from her),” the 30-year-old said, adding, “Many of my friends are actors and I don’t miss out the chance of asking them for any advice.”

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Akshay Kumar shares an intimate connection with Shiva, one that has only grown deeper over the years. The actor, who recently starred in and lent his voice to the devotional song, Shambhu, can’t help but feel emotional when he speaks to us on Mahashivratri today.

“The connection I have with Shiva has strengthened further since I lost my mother. He calms my soul and makes me feel that with loss, there’s always a new life,” says the actor, who played Shiva’s messenger in the 2023 film OMG 2.

He tells us, “The film came to me at the right time. Through it, I got comfort and strength when I didn’t even know I needed it. Now, I wake up and listen to his songs during my workout every day. I feel his strength and resilience. I trust the next chapter of my life because I know the author is going to be Shiva.”

In fact, not many know that the 56-year-old has started signing off his messages and posts with ‘Jai Mahakal’. Ask what drove him to do that, and Kumar shares, “I picked it up in Mahadev Ki Nagri, Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh), which I visited for the shoot of OMG 2. Everybody was greeting each other with ‘Jai Mahakal, Har Har Mahadev’, and no greeting ever went unanswered. After all, Mahadev is everything, and eventually everything unites with him.”

The actor, who is looking forward to the release of his next big film, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, hopes to witness the grandeur of Mahashivratri celebrations some day. “I haven’t had the chance to do that yet, but I’d love to. I did visit the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain last year to ring in my birthday, and got to witness the Bhasma Aarti. The whole atmosphere was soul-stirring. I’ll never forget it.”

The actor’s super energetic performance at Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s pre-wedding celebrations in Jamnagar, Gujarat, left everyone in awe. “It happened at around 3 in the morning!” says Kumar, a known early bird, adding, “It was grand, of course. The Ambani family was so loving and caring. They left no stone unturned to make everyone feel included. Anant and Radhika were very gracious hosts. May Mahakal bless the happy couple.”

Akshay Kumar’s definition of athleticism is rather simple — learn to lift your own weight before trying to lift external weights. “And that’s why lifting doesn’t give me the same thrill, or [help me acquire] the physique that I aspire to have. Power-lifting is great for some people, but it’s just not my thing,” shares the actor, inarguably among the fittest in the Indian film industry.

Lack of equipment, however, does not imply that Kumar’s routine lacks variety. In fact, within the span of one week alone, the actor, 55, practices a bunch of varied exercise formats. “I like to mix it up — from shadow-boxing, conditioning, yoga, hydrotherapy, climbing, circuit training, and anything that involves fun and movement, I do it all. There is one thing, though — when I [am on the go], I miss my parkour gym, bars and rings, where I happily swing freely.”

When he is away on his shooting schedules, Kumar makes the most of the space available to him. “If there’s a pool, I’m in it; if there’s a garden, I’m on the grass; if there’s a ground, I’ll be playing cricket and flexing for every wicket. I’ve benefited from every fitness format. I’ve thrived off learning anything I could, from sports, martial arts, stuns, and parkour, to gymnastics, and rock-climbing. I’ve tried everything, including trampolining. There’s nothing that I haven’t enjoyed and benefited from. The key is to move, love life, and respect your health.”

While he makes his routines as enjoyable as he can, even Khiladi Kumar needs guidance when it comes to his training. One of his fitness coaches, he says, always accompanies him on outdoor shoots, because “I spend a huge amount of time shooting abroad, and if I didn’t adhere to my routine, I wouldn’t be cast as a hero thereafter”. He also travels with a chef in tow, who prepares “simple, but wholesome meals”.

“There aren’t many dos and don’ts when it comes to my diet. The amount I eat depends on my training. Eating in moderation is key, and my diet is balanced. Too much of anything is bad, and no one becomes fat, or thin, if they eat in moderation. But, refined sugar will kill us all one day.”

Kumar’s Instagram news feed is punctuated with videos of his training routine at his home gym, with daughter Nitara often featuring in them as she tries her hand at his regimen. Kumar admits that when it comes to his children, he wishes to lead by example. “Monkey see, monkey do! I don’t believe in telling my kids that they have to, or need to train. Showing them how I train is enough [to motivate] them. Thankfully, they both love to train with me, or in their own [space],” says the actor, adding that he believes physical fitness should receive prominence in the Indian school curriculum.

“Starting [to train when I was] young was the best thing I could ever have done for myself, and my kids. Learning to fall, fight, and fly has helped me build the foundation to try anything. I believe sports and martial arts should be compulsory, like education is, and at every school and community centre. It is equally important, especially because our bodies need to experience everything when we are young in order to become whatever we desire when we grow older.”

The actor’s latest effort in blending his love for fashion and fitness is his recently released athleisure wear, Force IX, the designs of which draw inspiration from the aesthetics of the armed forces. “I want people to feel comfortable while pursuing their fitness journeys. Not everyone likes to train in skin-tight clothing, so, I wanted to make something that people from all walks of life could enjoy.”

Actor Akshay Kumar is ushering in the festival of lights with the release of his film, Ram Setu. But, amid all the effort invested in his films and his infectious enthusiasm to keep going, he remains a devoted family man. Ahead of his film’s release, the 55-year-old gets talking about family, films and the Friday factor. Excerpts:

I don’t think that will ever change. It’s like giving an exam. You prepare the entire year for it, revise, write the exam and then wait for the result. So, Friday is like the result day. There is a good kind of nervousness to know what the result will be. That’s what makes every release special.

There is no clash. Let’s not refer to it as that. They are two films, with different appeals, releasing on the same day. It’s happened in the past and it will happen in the future. Fans will choose to watch the one that appeals to them the most or better still, watch both. The main objective is for our fans to enjoy the festival at the movies with friends and family.

Ram Setu is very proudly rooted in Indian history and culture. On the factual side, the team has relied on deep research to represent what is true and bring out several unknown facts. On the spiritual, sentimental side, we have not only remained emotionally respectful, but I can assure you that the values and beliefs associated with Shri Ram and Ram Setu are being uniquely upheld.

I guess it would have to be every action movie I’ve ever committed to. Sometimes, it’s not the big stunts that are the riskiest. I’ve been hurt performing simple stunts that stunt teams and even myself have taken for granted. The key is to be prepared every single time, check your weapons, cables, timing again and again and again. You can never be too careful in this industry.

There’s a price for everything. But, I’d never do something that wouldn’t bring joy or pride to my family. If it hurts, disgusts or disappoints them, my heart wouldn’t be interested. I live for their approval of my work, it just wouldn’t be the same if I knew any project didn’t give them a safe, happy feeling inside.

My family was busy studying in London, I was really looking forward to them returning to begin celebrations. There’s nothing quite like playing games with my wife (author Twinkle Khanna) and kids (Aarav and Nitara).

I think they are busier than me, and I say that with immense pride. But, the one thing we don’t do is complain. Yes, we miss each other. But to be married for 20 years and still miss each other, it is a blessing right there. Nothing in this life is half as good without my family.

After Atrangi Re, Aanand L Rai and Akshay Kumar have come together once again for a family entertainer that is close to their hearts. Raksha Bandhan, which releases today, is a film the two say they couldn’t have made without each other. While in Delhi for promotions, the filmmaker and actor shared more about why they enjoy working together, and the film that focuses on family values and bonding.

“Without Akshay, main Raksha Bandhan bana sakta tha, par aisi nahi bana sakta tha,” says Aanand, adding, “He is a great actor who has maintained versatility in his career, but for Raksha Bandhan I needed a person with heart, who would understand and know the emotions that this film is talking about. As a director, you cannot create emotions in a person, it has to be there. What actually worked for both of us is our background and our middle-class upbringing. We both had a similar upbringing… The way we see families and relationships is very similar. Akshay sir is the best brother I’ve ever met in real life. He has got his own way of expressing his love, emotions, and I have my own, but our thought process is quite similar. As a director, I need to understand the person in an actor and I can say that with confidence, that it would not have been possible to make Raksha Bandhan without this man.”

Akshay adds, “To work with Aanand was very easy for me. He is right when he says we had a similar upbringing. I was telling him, ‘let me take you to a place in Chandni Chowk where I spent my childhood’. It was a very small room with a kitchen and bathroom, and around 24 people would sleep together in that one room. From my parents to aunts, uncles, and cousins – he has shown this kind of family in his films. As an actor, it becomes easy for me to work with a director who understands this space and has seen this kind of life. Also, he knows how to make films that touch your heart. He has always made those mitti ki khushboo-wali filmein.”

Aanand says that with Raksha Bandhan, he attempted to narrate a simple story of love, bonding and family values. “I had to lose all my smartness to make this film. I had to unlearn a lot of things to go back to my roots. After this pandemic, I think we all need to understand that life is not about getting bigger in life, it is about making life bigger. Raksha Bandhan is my answer to myself, that life is not about so many materialistic things around us. It is about people, it is about family. Subconsciously, we all have started taking relationships for granted. Through this film, I wanted to focus on the basic things – the value of time spent with family and time given to relationships.”

Adds Akshay, “The best part about the film is its simplicity. I have been saying this is the best film of my career. I am not someone who cries watching films, but this movie has made me cry so much, and it makes you realise that we all have been going so fast that we have forgotten to invest time in our relationships.”

While the film highlights the issue of dowry, Akshay – who has been a part of films with social messages like Toilet: Ek Prem Katha and Pad Man – says, “The film is not preachy, but it has an important underlying message. If this film could bring a change in the thought process of even 10 families when it comes to dowry, it will be a big thing for us. Dowry is a big issue which we may not realise living in cities. I watched the movie with my son recently, and he asked me, ‘Dad, what is dahej?’ After watching the film, he understood the problem that he hadn’t even known existed. Yeh film jo bhi dekhenge, unko kahin na kahin aisi chot zaroor lagegi ki agar woh soch bhi raha hoga dahej ke baare mein; woh kam se kam paanch baar sochega.”

As revealed in the trailer of the film, the story of Raksha Bandhan is set in Chandni Chowk – the place where Akshay Kumar spent his childhood. “We have shot a few portions of the film in Chandni Chowk. I have my home here, which I visit often. Each time, it brings back a lot of childhood memories,” says Akshay.

About choosing Chandni Chowk as the backdrop to the story, Aanand says, “I wanted a place that is like a mini India, and Chandni Chowk gives you that feeling. That place depicts our country very well. It has a certain simplicity and character, which was required for this story.”

Raksha Bandhan, presented by Zee Studios in association with Alka Hiranandani and Aanand L Rai, is a Colour Yellow production in association with Cape Of Good Films. The film releases today.

Subjects are his “driving force”, and among them, “socially relevant films” push him more. As we catch up with actor Akshay Kumar a day before the release of Raksha Bandhan, he says, “I can easily make a Rowdy Rathore 2 or Singh is Kinng 2 and make triple the amount of money, but these are social awareness films, and I like making such films because they can make a difference. I was discussing with my director (Aanand L Rai) that after watching our film, even if just 10 people can make a decision to not take or offer dowry, then I consider it my success.”

Talking further about the movie, Kumar says, “It has the very basic emotion of bhai-behen, jo sabke ghar par chalta hai, but people don’t often think about it. We make films on all emotions and relationships, but it has been over four decades since we made a film on the brother-sister bond. Tapasya (1976) was probably the last film on this.”

Kumar surely shares a close bond with his sibling, Alka Bhatia. And fans saw him get incredibly emotional as he received a message from her while he was promoting his movie on a reality show. The 54-year-old says, “I rarely get emotional during a show. But when I saw the video where my sister spoke, I got carried away. We say men are strong and take care of their sisters, but I’ve seen sisters are stronger and take care of brothers more.”

Various videos and pictures from the crew’s promotional tour also caught everyone’s attention, and Kumar was seen treating his on-screen sisters with lots of goodies wherever they travelled. “During a game of ludo, I asked them what they wanted, and they said [that I] treat them wherever we go. So, with ghewar in Jaipur, chikankari stuff and kebabs in Lucknow, something from Indore and jewellery from somewhere, I have been fulfilling my promise.”

But, he also shared how tough these tours can be when he wrote on Instagram: ‘Filmmaking is a cakewalk, par promotions bache ki jaan le lete hain’. He explains, “Morning in Kolkata, the day in Lucknow and night in Delhi, it’s not easy. But, it’s (promotions) very necessary for the industry and the economy, as we want people to come to theatres.”

Terming the movie as his career’s best, he shares, “It made me realise how such a simple subject can be amazing.”

On competition with movies from the South, Kumar asserts, “At the end of the day, it’s good films that matter.”

Akshay Kumar’s most recent film, Bachchhan Paandey, may not have been a box-office success, but that won’t stop him from signing new projects and returning to the big screen. The actor has no reservations about taking on more acting and endorsement work, despite being accused of constantly working for money. Not only that, but the 54-year-old prefers to take things in stride and go on, even if memes tease him by implying that he will be in every biopic made.  Excerpts from a freewheeling chat:

Mujhe apni saari zindagi mein teen basic words samajh aaye — kaam, kamaayi aur karm. Main jee jaan laga ke kaam karta hoon. Zyada se zyada kaam karta hun taaki zyada se zyada kamaayi kar sakun. I don’t say no to any work that comes my way — kaisa bhi role ho, kaisa bhi function ho, kisi bhi cheez ki ad karni ho. Kyunki kaam se aati hai kamaayi aur uss se main koshish karta hun achhe se achha karm karne ki. For the past many years, I have paid the maximum tax each year, and I have contributed 10% of the remaining income to some noble cause. If today, I start thinking about doing less work, fewer films, fewer ads, then all these causes will be also be impacted in a way. Main simple insaan hun…Mujhe itna hi samajh aata hai — kaam kar, kamaayi kar aur karm kar.

If the meme is funny, I laugh. It’s normal to laugh if you find a joke funny, isn’t it? And who doesn’t like a good laugh? As for being at the centre of these memes, I couldn’t be happier because I’m glad that over the years I’ve managed to carve out a space for myself where I can fit into such varied roles. This is what has helped me stay relevant and in the memory of audience.

That’s not entirely true; I also do original scripts. Prithviraj, Ram Setu, Raksha Bandhan, OMG2, Gorkha, etc. are all original scripts. Yes, there are some remakes, too, but that’s because these are films I’ve watched and loved. I’m excited to bring this to our audience as I feel the market for the same hasn’t been tapped. And it’s not a one-way deal; even South Indian films borrow scripts from our industry. My films, such as Special 26 (2013), OMG – Oh My God! (2012) etc. have been remade in the south. Likewise, there are films featuring other Bollywood actors that have been remade as well. If something has worked and is successful, everyone wants a piece of the pie.

Writing OTT content is very different from writing a feature film. There’s so much more that goes into web shows — multiple characters, back-to-back episodes — that you’ve got to keep in mind a multi-season arc while writing to have the germ of the following seasons ready. But especially with The End, we are attempting to do something, which has never been done in our Indian space. The story, the technology, the characters... we are trying to make the kind of content that pushes the boundaries as we know it. The good news, though, is that I will start filming for it in the first half of 2023.

Firstly, let me tell you that I am elated with the success that The Kashmir Files has seen. It shows you the power of cinema and that there is no formula for starting budgets and films in a certain way that guarantees success. It proves that the audiences are who we make our films for, and when they lap up something, it just flies. Yes, I would have liked Bachchhan Paandey to do better than what it is doing, but not once do I blame The Kashmir Files for it. That film is a storm, and we came in the eye of it.

Actor Akshay Kumar is riding high on the success of Sooryavanshi. The theatrically released film is set to enter the ₹200-crore club. As he gears up for the release of Atrangi Re, he talks to us about his part in the film, unity in the industry, and more. Excerpts:

God has been so kind, but this wouldn’t have been possible without the support from our fans. To be able to come this far, with only 50% occupancy (in theatres) in some states, is more than what I could have wished for. Cinemagoers deserved a party after such a long and painful pandemic.

There’s nothing like facing a challenge this big and being the first film to open the doors, knowing that your peers, colleagues and idols are rooting for you. I pray this sense of togetherness remains forever. I felt we were all for one and one for all.

I feel I’ve reached a place in life, where I do things because I want to do them and not because I have to. Atrangi Re makes you fall in love with love. There wasn’t even a flicker of doubt in my soul. I felt nothing but gratitude to be a part of a film, so brilliantly led by (actors) Dhanush and Sara Ali Khan. Aanand L Rai (director) captivated me. Whether I just have a special role on an elephant in his film, sometimes, just being invited to the party is enough.

I love the world he creates... it is vibrant and colourful, yet complicated, which fascinates me. He knows his characters well and he has a strong understanding of complex human emotions, which is why he manages to showcase them so beautifully. His passion for storytelling and conviction for his stories has made me collaborate with him, not once but thrice already. All the films are yet to release.

Have you ever heard someone say they are tired of their true love? When you are as lucky as I am and get to live your dream, work, chase, respect and admire your dream every single day. There is not a minute that goes by when you feel worn out. I feel alive, more than ever. All I need is an early night and a healthy breakfast, and I’m happy to entertain all day long. I may be a Grinch at night, but once the sun rises, it doesn’t matter what kind of week I’ve had. Every new day in the industry is a blessing. There’s no time to be tired.

The first big release after theatres reopened in Maharashtra, Sooryavanshi has broken the dry spell for cinema halls by great box-office collections. Actor Akshay Kumar’s tough cop act in the actioner has received a thumbs-up from the audience. And, to play DCP Veer Surya, he drew inspiration from Vishwas Nangare Patil, the Joint Commissioner of Police (Law and Order), Mumbai City.

Talking about it, the actor says, “I don’t have an iota of hesitation in saying that Vishwas Nangare Patil ji has been my inspiration for playing a cop in the film. I have known him for years, and it impresses me to no end to see an IPS officer, who is so upright and on-point.”

Kumar admits that to play Sooryavanshi, the IPS officer is the perfect figure to look up to. “He is tough on the exterior and all heart inside, because he does so many good deeds as a part of his duty. He lead a team of frontline workers during the recent Coronavirus crisis. Also, he is extremely fit and works hard on his health. Who else did I need as a role model for my character as a police officer in the film?” he adds.

Patil was the Deputy Commissioner of Police zone-1 in South Mumbai during the Mumbai terror attack of 2008. He led the team at the Taj Hotel, Colaba, on November 26, and shot one of the terrorists. In 2015, he was conferred with the President’s Police Medal. He also made headlines for his love for marathons and ensuring a fit police force. He has also been a former Commissioner of Police for Nashik city.

It was raining release date announcements in Bollywood over the weekend, after cinemas were given a go-ahead to reopen in Maharashtra. But, for Akshay Kumar alone, there was this special line-up queued up. The actor announced release dates for not one or two, but five of his films — Sooryavanshi, Prithviraj, Bachchan Pandey, Raksha Bandhan and Ram Setu — that are all set to finally hit the big screens over the next one year. There’s also Oh My God 2 and Atrangi Re, both of which are likely to release next year. In an exclusive chat, Kumar talks about keeping up his pace of four films a year, ensuring all releases are spaced out, and how the entire film industry is finally hoping for good times ahead.

It’s a good feeling, having four-five releases a year, again. The life, as we all knew and have lived, is back now; things are getting back to normal, and I hope it stays that way (fingers so tightly crossed that they hurt). Since the past year-and-a-half, we’ve been waiting behind the scenes with bated breath for the right time to showcase and unleash the entertainment to the audiences.

If you’ve seen the release dates, they’re all spaced out, like how my films used to be before the Coronavirus pandemic... a film comes out after a span of three to four months, and that’s how it is even now. As for it being an overdose, I don’t think so. Since all the films belong to completely different genres, there’s something for everyone. As an actor, finally my films are going to be enjoyed again on the big screen, like how they’re meant to be. This is the most excited I’ve been in a long time.

Absolutely, and I think people have already started doing that, because till when can you stay cooped up at home, with life being at a standstill? Offices have started, people are working out... going to the gym, parks etc., eating out at restaurants, visiting malls if they are fully vaccinated, travelling and going on vacations. So why single out going to the movies? Films have been around to entertain you since decades, and now they need your support to revive and survive. And I’m sure together, we will manage to do so in no time. Though I’d still urge the audience to follow all the safety protocols that have been listed out by the authorities.

If I could say anything on behalf of the Hindi film industry, it is just that we are being hopeful, like we were before the second wave, and keeping our fingers very tightly crossed that the worst is over. We are just going with the flow. It has been a tough year-and-a-half for the entire film industry, with everyone bleeding money, but things are finally looking up with the reopening of cinemas in Maharashtra (from October 22). And, I hope audiences have missed watching us as much as we have missed them. I’m truly looking forward to a great year at the movies.

To be honest, I haven’t yet included Atrangi Re in the list (of theatrical releases), because we are still mulling over whether it should be a theatrical film or an OTT release. It has a fantastic, never-heard-before subject and storyline. For me, and (director) Aanand L Rai, it is critical that the most suited platform is chosen for the film. Also, for me, good content goes hand in hand with the platform. I am as much for OTT as for theatres. What’s best for the film should decide the medium of release. OTT may simply be the medium of choice for Atrangi Re, as it looks right now.

He is one of the most business-savvy actors in Bollywood. But business wasn’t Akshay Kumar’s top priority when he sought a theatrical run for Bellbottom. The superstar chose to back a larger cause instead — the revival of cinemas. In his books, the goodwill thus earned far outweighs the financial success of a film. Today, he is content in having made the right decision; after earning a respectable amount at the box office, Bell Bottom opened to positive reviews on Amazon Prime Video last week.

“The appreciation that it is garnering, makes all the hard work seem worthwhile,” begins the actor. The Ranjit M Tewari-directed spy thriller hit the marquee in mid-August amid the theatre shutdown in Maharashtra. “I was a bit disheartened because theatres hadn’t opened up everywhere, despite the 50 per cent occupancy rule. But I believe every film has its own destiny. Bellbottom earned a lot of love and respect from the audiences as well as the industry for fronting the return of cinemas.”

Kumar had a taste of a digital premiere last year with Laxmii (2020). How does he view the OTT boom of the past one-and-a-half years? “Many films are opting for a direct-to-OTT release, so platforms are getting new films in their catalogue. Content creators have an avenue to showcase their work, in spite of Covid-19 restrictions. So, it is a win-win situation for both,” he states.

That said, Kumar and the makers of Sooryavanshi are determined to take the cinema-first route for the cop caper. It has been a long wait for Rohit Shetty’s directorial venture to hit the screens, but the actor is unperturbed. “There’s no point in being distressed. I have left the decision to Rohit and Reliance [Entertainment]. It’s as much their film as it is mine. I’m sure whatever decision they take, will be in the best interest of the film.”

Meanwhile, the actor will keep doing what he does best — churn out stories he believes in. The pandemic couldn’t slow him down as he shot for Bellbottom, Atrangi Re, Bachchan Pandey and Raksha Bandhan. “By nature, I am someone who can’t sit idle. If my shoot gets cancelled for some reason, I schedule a meeting or a narration. Also, because of my habit of waking up early, I have the added advantage of packing in more things in a day.”

He was one of the first actors to take the leap of faith and start shooting a movie soon after the first lockdown ended in 2020. In his bid to adapt to the new normal and find a way to work around it, Akshay Kumar completed the shooting of BellBottom in record time and today, has a long slate of films — some ready for release and some in various stages of production. In a chat with BT, the actor spoke about his first theatrical release this year and more. Excerpts:

BellBottom is also a story based on true events, and personally, I’m really intrigued by real-life context. So, I pick such content. The intrigue and thrill increase tenfold when you find out that an extraordinary incident actually took place. I love real-life stories. Before making this film, I also didn’t know about this chapter in history. I think a lot of people don’t know much about it as it is based on a RAW agent and a covert operation. Things like these are usually classified information. BellBottom is set in the 70s and 80s when India faced the challenge of multiple hijacks. During one such incident, a RAW agent whose code name is BellBottom sees through the plan and begins India’s first covert operation.

Honestly, I don’t think so much, I look at a character as a character, and the film as a whole. If I like the script and screenplay, I go ahead with it. Whether it’s a hero’s role or a villain’s part, a 10-day shoot, or a month-long schedule... if I know it is something I’m going to enjoy playing, I do it. The above-mentioned films were successful, so, yes, in a way, it is like setting a benchmark for yourself and then crossing it.

It was actually very spontaneous. Our producer Vashu ji (Bhagnani), who shuttles between the UK and India, at that time was in the UK. I remember I was talking to him over the phone. It had been probably a month-and-a-half since we were in lockdown and restlessness had started to set in. It was probably the longest time I’d gone without facing the camera. And I randomly suggested to him that we shoot abroad in a bio-bubble. I kid you not, within 30 seconds, he said, ‘Yes, let’s do it.’ It was all him, he believed he could pull it off and he did. Ours was the first film in the world to start and finish shooting in the midst of the pandemic, and now, we are the first Hindi film to unlock theatres after the second wave, despite losing out on Maharashtra. From the start till the end, it has been Vashu ji, and of course, his children, Jackky and Honey, who have made this impossible mission possible.

I think this decision, and rightly so, belongs to the person whose money is riding on it. So, even in the case of BellBottom, it was Vashu ji’s decision to go ahead with the theatrical release of the film and we all respected that. Of course, it would’ve been a more favourable scenario had theatres in Maharashtra opened up, because anyway, as per the norms, it would’ve been 50% occupancy, so you’re already losing out a huge chunk. And now, with Maharashtra territory not opening up, which accounts for nearly 30% of the business, it is going to be a tough battle. But Vashu ji is a brave man, he’d made up his mind that come rain or sunshine, this time, we wouldn’t budge from the planned release date.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again — with regards to Sooryavanshi’s release date, there are only two people who can answer your question. One is God and the other person is Rohit Shetty. Even I want to see Sooryavanshi on the big screen. As for the audience and my fans, I’m really grateful that despite such a long wait, they are asking about updates on its release. Hopefully, BellBottom will pave the way for future theatrical releases including Sooryavanshi.

I think so. Living with COVID is the norm now. The recent India vs England match is a good example, if you saw how many people turned up in the stadium. After all, for how long can people stay cooped up at home, not go to work, to the mall, stadiums, theatres and restaurants? I think the audience is also hungry to watch films on the big screen, one just has to wear a mask and move on.

Definitely the latter. Despite a huge territory like Maharashtra not opening up, we still went ahead with Bell-Bottom’s release, because someone has to. Now, we have vaccinations in place, theatres are sanitised and following all safety protocols, their employees are vaccinated and people are masking up. Given the circumstances, everyone is putting their best foot forward and trying to make the experience of watching a movie in a theatre normal and safe again.

After BellBottom, I’m now shooting my second film, tentatively titled Cinderella with Ranjit. You know, earlier I used to work with new directors because big directors didn’t take me in their films (laughs!). But the reason I continue to do so even now is that although new directors lack experience, they make it up with their greed to do more, passion to do better and that is something I like surrendering to. I know while I may be working on multiple projects at one go, this person has only this one opportunity to get it right and he will give it his all.

I wouldn’t say I insisted, but yes, I did suggest Lara’s name for the role. For some reason, she was the first person who came to my mind. I remember calling her up and telling her about this film that I was doing and that we were casting for the role of Indira Gandhi in it. I wanted her to consider it. And she started laughing and refused to believe I was seriously asking her to consider it. For the longest time, she thought I was playing a prank as she saw no similarity between the two whatsoever. But then I explained to her what the role entailed and why I felt she could do justice to it. And she, along with the brilliance of make-up artist Vikram Gaikwad and his team, did exactly that.

From taking a 200-member crew to the United Kingdom to shoot a film from start to finish amid the Coronavirus pandemic last year, to wrapping up five films since then, Akshay Kumar has been leading by example. In a chat with us, the actor divulges what led to the decision of releasing Bellbottom in theatres at a time when they aren’t operating in full capacity, and how he drew inspiration from frontline workers. Excerpts:

I still remember that flight, being on the tarmac with a crew of 200 plus members. Everyone was quiet while we were about to take off, as there was so much uncertainty and apprehension, the underlying fear that anytime, we’d get a call about a change in rules and regulations, and we won’t be able to fly. But, as soon as we were airborne, the entire crew screamed in jubilation, almost deafening. That was such a special, liberating moment... maybe my most memorable flight till date!

I can’t comment about others, but I am going about doing business as usual. I’ve already completed five films during the pandemic. And, I’m onto the next one, Cinderella, with the same team as BellBottom, directed by Ranjit Tewari. But then, this has always been the way I’ve worked — doing an average of four films a year. Yes, the avenues to showcase our films may change a little. I know even before shoot begins, that some films are being planned for an OTT release only. Also, another term I have recently learnt is hybrid release — when a film releases in theatres and on an OTT platform, simultaneously. One way or another, the show must and will go on.

Some of the memes are really funny. The recent one, which was a still from my film Saugandh (1991), of me with a stick, read ‘Akshay Kumar preparing for Neeraj Chopra biopic’. Jokes aside, it actually feels good. The worst thing for an actor is to be missing from public memory. I guess this whole experiment of juggling different genres seems to be working.

I pick subjects which I find entertaining. If they help convey a message to the audience, it’s the icing on the cake. As far as jingoism is concerned, it’s a conscious choice. If you overdo something, audiences can see through it. I prefer to keep it to a degree which is believable. The idea is to make audiences aware of stories of India’s unsung heroes, honour them and instil a sense of pride for their achievements. If we manage to do that much, mission accomplished!

We have so many interesting, untapped stories in our country. For instance, when I did Airlift, I didn’t know something like this had happened, and to this day, it’s the biggest civilian evacuation in aviation history. Many people weren’t aware of this fascinating story. Same was the case with Gold, Kesari, Mission Mangal (2019), etc. I love real-life stories, and when I hear of an extraordinary incident, I get all the more fascinated. I feel more people should know about it, and there begins the process of filmmaking. BellBottom is no different, it’s a story based on events of India’s first covert operation.

When Ranjit narrated the story to me, we knew it would be tricky to cast for the character of Indira Gandhi, but we had to get it right. Mrs Gandhi had a certain body language and gravitas, which I felt Lara could bring to the character, and look what an amazing job she has done. Congratulations to the makeup artist, Vikram Gaikwad, and his team for pulling off the look.

It did earlier, but with time, I’ve learnt that the lesser time you spend mulling over things which aren’t in your control, the happier you’ll be. We had two choices — sulk and postpone again, or go ahead and let the film decide its fate. Taking control of what’s in our hands, we chose the latter.

I’ll have to redirect this question to two people, God and Rohit Shetty (laughs). In case you have an update, let me also know! On a serious note, with BellBottom, we’ve taken a step ahead of returning to the big screen. Hopefully, the results will give others confidence to follow suit.

Last year, most of us had the privilege to stay safe and work from home. But doctors, policemen and essential service providers didn’t have that choice. They continued doing their jobs, despite the looming fear. I took inspiration from them. The only job I know is to act, so I decided to get back to work. I have been fortunate to have cooperative producers and directors who agreed to resume shooting amid the pandemic. And, I’m glad if one decision, in turn, helped people who are associated with me to get back to their normal livelihood as well.

I have been very fortunate that such diverse roles have come my way. Earlier in my career, I’d gotten too comfortable as an action hero. It was sheer luck that Priyan (director Priyadarshan) sir offered and convinced me to do Hera Pheri, which helped me step out of my comfort zone. The reward of that one risk of trying to do something totally new, taught me to keep an open mind and play different roles, be it a transgender character, a homosexual or Pad Man. In a way, I’m still reaping the benefits of Hera Pheri.