Akshay Kumar

Akshay Kumar, born as Rajiv Hari Om Bhatia on September 9, 1967, in Amritsar, Punjab, India, is one of Bollywood’s most versatile and highest-paid actors. Raised in Delhi and later in Mumbai, Akshay had a modest upbringing. He was deeply influenced by martial arts from a young age, which led him to travel to Bangkok, Thailand, to study Muay Thai. There, he worked as a waiter and chef while training in martial arts—skills that would later play a significant role in shaping his screen persona as an action hero.

Akshay’s entry into Bollywood was not instant. He initially worked as a background dancer and a model before landing his first lead role in “Saugandh” (1991). However, it was the 1992 film “Khiladi” that catapulted him to fame. The success of this film led to a series of action-packed “Khiladi” films, earning him the nickname “Khiladi Kumar.” Despite early typecasting, Akshay reinvented himself over the years, successfully transitioning from action films to comedies, dramas, and socially impactful cinema. His performances in movies like “Hera Pheri” (2000), “Namastey London” (2007), “Airlift” (2016), “Toilet: Ek Prem Katha” (2017), and “Pad Man” (2018) showcased his acting range and his willingness to take on socially relevant issues.

Apart from acting, Akshay Kumar is a successful film producer under his banner Hari Om Entertainment and Cape of Good Films. Known for his punctuality, disciplined lifestyle, and exceptional fitness, he is often regarded as one of the most hardworking actors in the industry. Over the decades, he has appeared in over 150 films, winning numerous awards including the National Film Award for Best Actor for Rustom (2016) and a Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, in 2009.

On the personal front, Akshay married Twinkle Khanna, daughter of actors Rajesh Khanna and Dimple Kapadia, in 2001. They have two children. Despite controversies and his Canadian citizenship—which he later renounced—Akshay remains a beloved and bankable star. He is also known for his philanthropy, contributing to various causes including army welfare, disaster relief, and women’s health.

Today, Akshay Kumar stands not only as a major box-office draw but also as a socially conscious artist whose body of work continues to evolve, inspire, and entertain millions across the globe.