Akshay Kumar is a name synonymous with versatility, charisma, and philanthropy, and has undoubtedly carved an indelible mark in the world of Bollywood. Beyond his impeccable acting skills and box office dominance, he's known for his profound impact in various spheres. Get ready to delve into 10 surprising remarkable facts about the actor that define the man behind the stardom. From his substantial contributions to society to his journey as an actor, here are the top 10 facts about the superstar:
Highest Taxpayer: Akshay has been consistently ranked as one of India's highest taxpayers, contributing significantly to the nation's economy.
Social Media Star: Boasting one of the largest social media followings among Bollywood celebrities, the actor enjoys a massive online presence of 65.7 million followers.
Bharat Ke Veer Initiative: Akshay also played a pivotal role in launching the "Bharat Ke Veer" initiative, providing support to the families of paramilitary personnel who sacrificed their lives for the country.
Donation Drives: During crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, he made substantial donations to relief efforts, demonstrating his commitment to helping those in need.
Farmers' Advocate: He actively supports farmers and agricultural causes through donations and awareness campaigns.
Philanthropy: Beyond specific causes, Akshay is deeply involved in philanthropic work, reflecting his dedication to social betterment.
Padma Shri Recipient: In recognition of his outstanding contributions to Indian cinema, he was honored with the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2009, cementing his legacy as an influential figure in the industry.
Other Initiatives: Apart from the above-mentioned areas, he has been involved in various other charitable initiatives, including supporting underprivileged children and promoting sanitation and hygiene.
Indian Citizenship: Akshay gave up his Canadian citizenship earlier in August 2023. He had a longstanding relationship with Canada since the early 90s, dating back to his initial years as an actor too. He is now an Indian passport holder and the post was received with love from fans across the globe
Martial Arts Expert: Before entering the film industry, Akshay worked as a martial arts trainer and even taught self-defense techniques in Mumbai. His martial arts skills have been showcased in many of his action-packed films.
Early Career: Akshay started his career in Bollywood as a model and appeared in various advertisements before making his acting debut in the film Saugandh in 1991.
Versatile Actor: He is known for his versatility as an actor. While he is famous for his action roles, he has also excelled in comedy, drama, and romantic films. This versatility has earned him the nickname "Khiladi Kumar."
Filmography: Akshay has acted in over 150 films in his career and has appeared in a wide range of genres. Some of his notable films include Hera Pheri, Khiladi, Dil To Pagal Hai, Singh is Kinng, and Toilet: Ek Prem Katha.
Fitness Enthusiast: He is known for his strict fitness regimen and has often promoted a healthy lifestyle. Akshay is also a black belt in Taekwondo.
Production House: Akshay established his production company called "Hari Om Entertainment" and later renamed it "Cape of Good Films." Under his production banner, he has produced several successful films.
Highest-Paid Actor: Akshay has been consistently among the highest-paid actors in Bollywood. His success at the box office and his prolific work in the film industry contribute to his status as one of the industry's top earners.