Akshay Kumar
Akshay Kumar (born Rajiv Hari Om Bhatia; 9 September 1967) is an Indian actor and film producer known for his work in Hindi cinema. With a career spanning more than three decades and over 100 films, he is recognized for his performances in action films, comedies, and socially themed dramas. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2009 and received the National Film Award for Best Actor in 2017.
| Akshay Kumar | |
|---|---|
| |
| Born | Rajiv Hari Om Bhatia 9 September 1967 Amritsar, Punjab, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Actor, Producer |
| Years active | 1987–present |
| Spouse | Twinkle Khanna (m. 2001) |
| Children | 2 |
Early Life and Education
Akshay Kumar was born in Amritsar, Punjab, India, to Hari Om Bhatia, an army officer, and Aruna Bhatia. The family later moved to Delhi and then to Mumbai (then Bombay), where he completed his schooling.[1]
He developed an early interest in martial arts and traveled to Thailand to train in Muay Thai. After returning to India, he worked as a martial arts instructor and model before entering the film industry.[2]
Career
Early Career (1987–1999)
Kumar made his first screen appearance in Aaj (1987) in a minor role. He gained his first lead role in Saugandh (1991). During the 1990s, he established himself as an action star, particularly with the Khiladi film series.
Notable early films include:
- Khiladi (1992)
- Main Khiladi Tu Anari (1994)
- Mohra (1994)
- Yeh Dillagi (1994)
- Dhadkan (2000)
His performance in Ajnabee (2001) earned him his first Filmfare Award for Best Villain.[3]
Rise to Stardom (2000–2010)
The comedy Hera Pheri (2000) marked a turning point in his career and established him as a successful comic actor. He followed this with several hit comedies, including:
- Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004)
- Garam Masala (2005)
- Phir Hera Pheri (2006)
- Housefull (2010)
He also starred in commercially successful films such as:
- Namastey London (2007)
- Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007)
- Singh Is Kinng (2008)
He hosted the reality show Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi in multiple seasons.[4]
2010s and Beyond
In the 2010s, Kumar diversified into action, drama, and socially driven films. Some notable works include:
- Rowdy Rathore (2012)
- OMG: Oh My God! (2012)
- Holiday: A Soldier Is Never Off Duty (2014)
- Airlift (2016)
- Rustom (2016)
- Toilet: Ek Prem Katha (2017)
- Pad Man (2018)
- OMG 2 (2023)
He won the National Film Award for Best Actor for Rustom.
Production Ventures
In 2008, he founded the production company Cape of Good Films (formerly Hari Om Entertainment). He also cofounded Grazing Goat Pictures. His companies have produced several of his films and other projects.
Personal Life
Akshay Kumar married actress and author Twinkle Khanna in 2001. She is the daughter of actors Rajesh Khanna and Dimple Kapadia. The couple has two children.
- Date of Birth: 9 September 1967
- Age: 58 (as of 2026)
- Zodiac Sign: Virgo
- Religion: Hinduism
- Hobbies: Martial arts, fitness training
Controversies
His National Film Award win in 2017 sparked debate, with some critics questioning the jury’s decision. He was also criticized for holding Canadian citizenship during a phase of his career; he regained Indian citizenship in 2023.
Awards and Honours
- Padma Shri (2009)
- National Film Award for Best Actor (2017)
- Multiple Filmfare Awards
Net Worth
Akshay Kumar is among the highest-paid actors in India. His income sources include films, brand endorsements, and production ventures.
References
- ↑ https://www.britannica.com/biography/Akshay-Kumar
- ↑ https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/akshay-kumar-at-prem-chopras-biography-event-akshay-kumar-bonds-with-prem-chora-unveiling-of-prem-chopras-biography/articleshow/33904964.cms
- ↑ https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/akshay-kumar-launches-dara-singhs-biography-deedara-on-the-wrestlers-88th-birthday-3150008.html
- ↑ https://www.ibtimes.co.in/photos/akshay-kumar-launches-dara-singhs-biography-deedara-9360-slide-54922