Just when you have an overdose of stories about the backbiting among the Bollywood fraternity, they make sure that you hear tales about their gehri dostis as well. And the latest stories are all about how Akshay Kumar obliged his old friend Lara Dutta by agreeing to do a cameo in her forthcoming film Chalo Dilli.

And now for the clincher: Not only has Akki agreed to waive his fee for the special appearance, he also shot for 20 hours straight for Lara’s film! But lest you think that Lara was being a slave driver and taking advantage of her dost, the truth is that Akki’s schedule had actually been spread out over three days. But our action hero just couldn’t spare that much time. So instead, he ensured that he packed in everything that he was needed to do within one day. Hence, the protracted 20-hour shoot.

Lara — who has worked with Akki in Andaaz, Blue and Housefull — says he is her 4 am friend and holds an invaluable place in her life. “Whenever I need advice I go to Akshay, he’s mentored me in a way,” she says. “There was a scene in Chalo Dilli where I was supposed to run alongside a moving train. I fell a few times and Akki was concerned enough to be present at the shoot so that we didn’t face any mishaps. He was so helpful and advised me on how to pull off the scene.” Given Akki’s propensity for control, we’re not surprised.