Akshay Kumar – The Khiladi of Bollywood
Introduction
Akshay Kumar, born as Rajiv Hari Om Bhatia on September 9, 1967, is one of the most successful and influential actors in Indian cinema. Known for his versatility, discipline, and dedication, Akshay has been a top Bollywood star for over three decades. Popularly referred to as the “Khiladi Kumar”, he is loved for his action films, comedy roles, socially relevant dramas, and inspiring real-life persona.
Early Life & Background
Full Name: Rajiv Hari Om Bhatia
Date of Birth: 9 September 1967
Birthplace: Amritsar, Punjab, India
Raised in: Delhi and later moved to Mumbai
Education: Don Bosco School, Mumbai; briefly attended Guru Nanak Khalsa College, Mumbai
Martial Arts Training: Studied martial arts in Bangkok, Thailand, and worked as a chef and waiter before entering films.
Akshay’s journey from a martial arts trainer to one of the highest-paid actors in the world is nothing short of inspiring.
Film Career
Akshay Kumar made his Bollywood debut in 1991 with the film Saugandh, but his breakthrough came with the Khiladi series starting in 1992. His career can be broadly divided into phases:
Action Hero Era (1990s)
Established himself as Bollywood’s top action star through films like Khiladi (1992), Main Khiladi Tu Anari (1994), and Mohra (1994).
Nicknamed “Khiladi Kumar” due to his action-packed roles.
Comedy and Versatility (2000s)
Showcased comic timing in films like Hera Pheri (2000), Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004), and Garam Masala (2005).
Balanced genres including romance (Dhadkan), thrillers (Ajnabee), and family dramas (Waqt).
Socially Relevant & Patriotic Cinema (2010s–present)
Delivered impactful films like Special 26 (2013), Airlift (2016), Toilet: Ek Prem Katha (2017), Pad Man (2018), and Mission Mangal (2019).
Known for choosing subjects with national and social importance.
Awards & Achievements
National Film Award for Best Actor (Rustom, 2016)
Filmfare Awards for performances in Ajnabee and Garam Masala
Honored with Padma Shri (2009) by the Government of India
Ranked among Forbes’ highest-paid actors multiple times
Personal Life
Spouse: Twinkle Khanna (married in 2001)
Children: Aarav and Nitara
Akshay is known for his fitness routine, discipline, and 4 a.m. wake-up schedule.
Actively supports causes related to education, health, and armed forces welfare.
Interesting Facts
Holds a black belt in Taekwondo and trained in Muay Thai in Thailand.
Performs most of his own stunts.
Known as Bollywood’s most bankable star with over 100 films in his career.
Avoids late-night parties and follows a strict healthy lifestyle.
Legacy
Akshay Kumar is more than just an actor—he’s a brand, a fitness icon, and an inspiration for millions. His ability to adapt to changing cinema trends, his strong work ethic, and his connection with audiences have made him a true legend of Bollywood.
