Interview: Akshay Kumar: “When a storm arrives, keep your head down. Even after it passes, keep your head down”!

An actor who has left an indelible mark across action, comedy, romance, and socially relevant cinema, Akshay Kumar remains one of Bollywood’s most enduring superstars. Through blockbuster films such as Khiladi, Hera Pheri, Garam Masala, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Rowdy Rathore, Airlift, Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, Mission Mangal, Sooryavanshi, and Bhooth Bangla, he has entertained audiences for over three decades. Alongside his successful acting career, he has also established himself as a producer through acclaimed films like Pad Man, Mission Mangal, and OMG 2. In an exclusive conversation with our Sr Editor Keerti Kadam, Akshay Kumar spoke candidly about his journey, discipline, fitness, cinema, and his upcoming film Welcome To The Jungle.

Keerti Kadam: Despite witnessing numerous highs and lows in your career, you have remained grounded. What is the secret behind it?

Akshay Kumar: There is no great secret. We are here to work, do our job sincerely, and return home. If a film fails, there is little point dwelling on it. Instead, one should analyse what went wrong and learn from it. Life is full of ups and downs, but the key is to keep moving forward. There is an old saying: when a storm arrives, keep your head down, and even after it passes, keep your head down. Humility and patience keep you focused and protected.

Keerti Kadam: You complete several films every year. Where do you derive such discipline and energy from?

Akshay Kumar: Discipline has become an integral part of my personality. For the past 36 years, I have followed the same routine. Growing up, I watched my father wake up early every day, work hard, and return home in the evening. From him, I learned the values of hard work and consistency. Success is not about one extraordinary achievement; it is about showing up every day and doing your work honestly.

Keerti Kadam: Comedy is often considered the most difficult genre of acting. Do you agree?

Akshay Kumar: Absolutely. Making someone emotional is comparatively easier because the story and circumstances support you. Making people laugh, however, is a true challenge. Comedy demands impeccable timing, observation, and an understanding of human behaviour. Unfortunately, comic performances do not always receive the recognition they deserve. Making people laugh is one of the finest forms of art.

Keerti Kadam: You are known for your disciplined lifestyle and early mornings. How do you manage night shoots?

Akshay Kumar: Night shoots are completely different from my usual routine. I prefer starting early and finishing work by evening. However, filmmaking requires flexibility. When night shoots are necessary, I adjust my schedule accordingly and ensure I get sufficient rest and recovery. Ultimately, the film’s requirements come first, and one must do whatever is needed to achieve the best result.

Keerti Kadam: Audiences will once again see you alongside Johny Lever. What can they expect?

Akshay Kumar: Johny Lever and I share a long professional association. We have worked together in several films and enjoyed tremendous chemistry on screen. In Welcome To The Jungle, audiences will experience both nostalgia and fresh entertainment. The film offers comedy, adventure, action, and emotional moments, making it a complete family entertainer.

Keerti Kadam: Actors from the Bhojpuri film industry are increasingly finding opportunities in mainstream Bollywood. How do you view this trend?

Akshay Kumar: An artist should be judged by talent, dedication, and hard work, not by language or region. India is blessed with diverse film industries, each contributing exceptional talent. I do not believe Bhojpuri actors should be viewed differently. Today, audiences appreciate quality performances, and talent transcends all linguistic boundaries.

Keerti Kadam: In Welcome To The Jungle, you portray a Bhojpuri actor. How was your experience with the language and culture?

Akshay Kumar: It was an enjoyable and fascinating experience. One of the film’s most memorable dialogues is, “Bhojpuri is better than Hollywood.” I play a Bhojpuri actor who gets an opportunity in Hindi cinema, leading to a series of amusing situations. Bhojpuri cinema has a rich cultural heritage and a massive audience. Since Bhojpuri and Hindi share many similarities, learning the language was not particularly difficult. However, every language has its own rhythm and flavour, and I made a conscious effort to capture that authenticity.

Keerti Kadam: As both an actor and producer, how important is it to balance entertainment with social messaging?

Akshay Kumar: That balance is extremely important. Cinema is primarily a medium of entertainment. Audiences come to theatres to experience stories and emotions. If a film focuses only on delivering a message, it risks becoming a documentary. Social themes become impactful when they are woven into compelling stories filled with drama, humour, and emotional engagement. The ideal Indian film is one that successfully combines entertainment with meaningful content.

Keerti Kadam: Your fitness and lifestyle inspire millions. How do you maintain physical and mental well-being?

Akshay Kumar: Physical fitness comes from regular exercise, proper nutrition, adequate rest, and discipline. There are no shortcuts; consistency is the key. Mental fitness, on the other hand, comes from simplicity, gratitude, and a positive outlook on life. I believe in staying connected to my roots, treating people with respect, and living honestly. Happiness is not dependent on wealth or success. We were happy when we had very little, and we are happy today. True peace comes from gratitude, simplicity, and maintaining balance in life.

By Keerti Kadam