A rumour that the Bollywood star Akshay Kumar, known as “Khiladi Kumar,” is bidding farewell to acting has been doing the rounds in Bollywood recently. The rumour stems mainly from his recently released film “Bhoot Bangla,” which drew a mixed response at the box office. Such talk had never been heard before about the star, who has appeared in more than 150 films over a long 36-year career. The downturn in his career has also been quite pronounced.
The actor, however, has said he has no plans to retire just yet. He clarified his position on the subject of retirement on Thursday at the trailer launch event for the film “Welcome to the Jungle.”
At the event, Akshay said that when he wakes up at four in the morning, thoughts of retirement sometimes cross his mind. But within a few seconds he remembers that he has a shoot and that about 300 people are waiting for him on set. “For five seconds I feel like retiring. Then I remember work again. That is how 36 years have passed,” he said.
Joking, the actor added that if he retired he might end up having to do work at home such as electrical repairs, walking the dog or gardening. So he feels it is better to keep working. “I will not retire, that is the better option,” he added.
Asked about spending more time with his family, Akshay said he had tried to take a break. But just one day later, the family supposedly asked him when he was going back to work. So “it is better to work.”
On the subject of retirement, he said: “People should retire only when there are just five seconds left in life. At the time of death I will say — I am retiring. Before that, one should keep working.”
Incidentally, Akshay Kumar made his debut in a lead role with the film “Saugandh” in 1991. Over a career spanning more than three decades, he has acted in more than 150 films. His repertoire includes several commercial successes, including “Khiladi,” “Hera Pheri,” “Welcome,” “Bhool Bhulaiyaa,” “Rowdy Rathore,” “Airlift” and “Kesari.” His recent films “Sky Force,” “Housefull 5,” “Jolly LLB 3” and “Bhoot Bangla” have been released.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report