Akshaye Khanna, Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, and Akshay Kumar all started their careers around the same time. While the others became huge stars, Akshaye didn’t reach that level of fame.
Akshaye Reflects on Stardom and Destiny
In a past interview with Anurradha Prasad, Akshaye explained why he didn’t become a superstar like his peers and discussed the comparisons made between them. When asked why he didn’t become a superstar despite being part of iconic films like Dil Chahta Hai, Border, and Taal, Akshaye explained, “As an actor, it’s the films that make you a superstar. You need blockbusters like Gadar, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, or Hum Aapke Hain Koun! to become a star. You can only try your best, but whether those films come your way is out of your control. It’s like being a businessman with a 500 crore business. But unless you become Ratan Tata or Dhirubhai Ambani, does that mean you’re not successful? If I don’t become Shah Rukh Khan, does that mean I haven’t seen success or become a star?”Choosing Integrity Over Industry Games
Akshaye shared his thoughts on the film industry, saying that in a country with over 120 crore people, only about 15 to 20 individuals are lucky enough to become lead actors, and he questioned what more one could ask for. He further added that if staying relevant in the industry required constant reinvention, attending every party, giving multiple interviews, or creating controversies, he would prefer to step away from it rather than change himself.
No Regrets About Not Becoming a Star
When asked if he ever feels disappointed about not becoming a superstar despite being such a talented actor, Akshaye responded, “No, never. What hasn’t God given me?” He added that there’s a perception that he lives in a cocoon, and if compared to other actors, one might think that’s true. He explained that he’s not a flamboyant person, saying, “I’m not that type of person.”
Recent Work: Chhaava’s Success
He recently played Emperor Aurangzeb in Laxman Utekar’s Chhaava. The historical action film, based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, also featured Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna in lead roles, with Dia Mirza, Ashutosh Rana, and Vineet Kumar Singh in key roles. The film became the highest-grossing film of the year, earning ₹806.45 crore worldwide at the box office.
Akshaye Khanna will next be seen in Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar. The film, which is currently in production, also stars Ranveer Singh, Sanjay Dutt, and others in key roles.
