Just Following My Father's Work Ethics: Akshay

For over three decades, Akshay Kumar has remained one of the most consistent and prolific stars in Indian cinema. In an industry often defined by unpredictability, he has built a reputation for discipline, hard work and an ability to keep moving forward regardless of success or failure.

Speaking during a media interaction for his upcoming film, ‘Welcome To The Jungle’, Akki offered a glimpse into the philosophy that continues to guide both his personal and professional life.

For someone who has experienced blockbuster successes as well as disappointments at the box office, staying grounded has never been a complicated exercise.

“Staying grounded isn’t rocket science,” he says, adding, “When a film flops, there’s not much you can do except understand what went wrong and try not to repeat the same mistake.”

Rather than dwelling on setbacks, he prefers to focus on the next step. Life, he believes, comes with highs and lows for everyone.

“The key is to keep moving forward. There’s a saying: when there’s a storm, keep your head down. Even after the storm passes, keep your head down. It helps you stay safe and focused.”

That outlook perhaps explains his remarkable work ethic. While many actors are becoming increasingly selective about projects, Akshay continues to juggle multiple films in a year. The answer, he says, lies in habit and discipline.

“It’s become a habit. I have been doing this for 36 years,” he says. The roots of that discipline go back to his childhood.

“I grew up watching my father wake up early, go to work and return home in the evening. I have followed the same discipline in my career. I enjoy working, and that’s why I'm able to complete multiple films every year.”

His daily routine remains famously regimented. Akshay confirms that he still prefers early dinners and early mornings.

“I usually have dinner around 6.30 p.m.. I prefer not to shoot late nights,” he says. Even when production demands require adjustments, efficiency remains the priority. “If a producer needs night shoots, I adjust my schedule and complete the work efficiently. Fortunately, in this case, I am one of the producers myself,” he says with a smile.

While action films have long been associated with Akki’s screen persona, comedy occupies a special place in his understanding of cinema. It is also a genre he believes is often underestimated.

“Comedy is the hardest thing to do,” he reflects, adding, “Making someone cry is comparatively easier because situations, music and emotions help create that atmosphere. Making people laugh requires precision and timing.”

Despite being one of the industry’s most successful comic actors, Akki feels comedy rarely receives the recognition it deserves. “Comedy doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves, but it’s one of the most challenging forms of entertainment,” he says.

As ‘Welcome To The Jungle’ prepares to bring together comedy, action and a massive ensemble cast, Akki believes audiences can expect a complete entertainer.

“The film has everything, comedy, action, stunts, songs, dance and entertainment. It’s a complete family entertainer,” he assures.

Beyond films and fitness, Akki places enormous importance on mental well-being. His approach, however, is surprisingly simple. “Physically, exercise is essential. Mentally, the key is simplicity.”

For him, happiness has little to do with fame or material success. “Live a simple life, don’t intentionally hurt anyone and stay grounded,” he says. “We were happy when we had very little, and we are happy today as well. Simplicity keeps stress away.”

The same simplicity influences how he approaches storytelling. Over the years, the actor has fronted films dealing with sanitation, menstrual health and social awareness. Yet he insists that entertainment must remain central to any message-driven film.

“A film cannot feel like a documentary. Whether it’s about sanitation, menstrual hygiene or sex education, you need emotion, humour, relationships and entertainment. That’s how important messages reach a wider audience.”

Akki’s respect for talent also extends beyond language and regional boundaries. Speaking about the growing recognition of Bhojpuri artists in mainstream entertainment, he dismisses any notion of hierarchy within the creative community.

“I have never believed in looking down on any artist. An artist is an artist, whether they come from Bhojpuri cinema, Hindi cinema or any other industry,” he asserts.

He adds that Bhojpuri music, in particular, brings a unique energy that he has always admired. After 36 years in cinema, countless films and an enduring connection with audiences, Akshay’s perspective remains remarkably straightforward. Work hard, learn from mistakes, stay disciplined and keep moving forward.

In an industry that often celebrates reinvention, perhaps his greatest strength has been consistency. And if there is one lesson he seems determined to hold onto, it is the one that has carried him through storms and sunshine alike: keep your head down and keep going.