Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar commenced his career as a model before transitioning into acting in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The actor debuted in Bollywood with the film Saugandh in 1991. However, he got a massive breakthrough with the action-packed thriller Khiladi in 1992.
Akshay’s journey from a martial arts instructor and model to a Bollywood superstar is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and innate talent. On the special occasion of his birthday, let us revive some of his best performances in the film industry.
Akshay Kumar’s Blockbuster Hits
Here are the top 10 films that define Akshay Kumar’s legacy.
1. Khiladi
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Khiladi marked a significant turning point in Akshay Kumar’s career. The film revolves around a carefree and adventurous young man who takes up a challenge to earn money.
The actor’s portrayal of the charismatic protagonist earned him the nickname ‘Khiladi Kumar,’ which has become synonymous with his image in Bollywood.
2. Hera Pheri
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Helmed by Priyadarshan, the classic Bollywood comedy film Hera Pheri centres around three main characters who find themselves in a series of comedic situations.
The film is a blend of slapstick humour, witty dialogues, and memorable performances, thus, making Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal, a celebrated comic trio in Indian cinema.
3. Bhool Bhulaiyaa
Platform: Disney+ Hotstar
The horror-comedy film revolves around the mystery of a supposedly haunted mansion and the psychological unraveling of one of its inhabitants. Akshay Kumar’s character plays a crucial role in solving the mystery and bringing a resolution to the story.
The actor’s performance in the film received praise for its blend of humor and mystery.
4. Phir Hera Pheri
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Desperate to settle their debt, the trio embark on a series of hilarious and chaotic schemes to raise the money, including participating in a kidnapping plot, starting a dance bar, and trying their hand at horse racing.
The sequel maintains the humor and chemistry that made the original film a cult classic.
5. Rowdy Rathore
Platform: Netflix
The film combines elements of action, drama, and humor, with Akshay Kumar playing a dual role as the comical Shiva and the tough-as-nails Vikram Rathore.
The movie features intense action sequences, catchy songs, and moments of humor, making it a commercial success.
6. Baby
Platform: Disney+ Hotstar
The espionage thriller film is known for its gripping plot and action sequences. The plot revolves around a top-secret Indian intelligence unit known as ‘Baby‘, and the team consisting of elite agents who work undercover to protect the country from terrorist threats.
Akshay Kumar’s performance as the fearless and determined agent received critical acclaim, and the film was both a critical and commercial success.
7. Airlift
Platform: MX Player
The film is based on real events and pays tribute to the efforts of those involved in the evacuation of Indians from Kuwait during the Gulf War.
Airlift is not only a compelling historical drama but also a story of human compassion and heroism in the face of adversity.
8. Rustom
Platform: Zee5
Rustom is a gripping crime drama that takes inspiration from a real-life legal case and examines the complexities of human behaviour and justice.
Akshay Kumar starrer delves into questions of whether Rustom’s actions were justified and whether he acted in self-defence or cold-blooded murder.
9. Toilet: Ek Prem Katha
Platform: Netflix
The film addresses a crucial social issue and promotes the importance of sanitation and hygiene in rural India.
Akshay Kumar and Bhumi Pednekar starrer follows Keshav’s journey as he tries to build a toilet for his wife, despite opposition from his family and societal norms.
10. Kesari
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Kesari celebrates the valour and sacrifice of the Sikh soldiers at the Battle of Saragarhi and their unwavering commitment to duty. The film combines intense battle sequences with themes of bravery, patriotism, and the indomitable spirit of the soldiers.
With the ultimate blockbusters, we celebrate the birthday of the versatile and action-packed superstar and let us take a moment to appreciate his incredible journey in Bollywood.
The actor has conquered it all with his charisma and talent. Here’s to the Khiladi who keeps us entertained and inspired year after year.
Happy Birthday, Akki!