On what basis is a film or an actor’s success defined? As per Bollywood’s standards, films with big box office numbers are at the forefront. Going by the same, the actors whose films as they say it ‘rule’ the box office are the successful ones. This has ultimately put the major aspect of a film i.e ‘the story ‘in the backseat. Many actors who find themselves on the artistic side of Hindi Cinema often remain understated. And actor Akshaye Khanna is one of them whose journey in the film industry has seen many ups and downs.
The actor began his career starring in many mainstream movies and earned a name for himself in the industry. While many of his early works were big hits, he continued his streak of success with some unforgettable roles. Akshaye Khanna’s filmography essays how his love diverged from mainstream to parallel cinema. With many top-notch performances under his name, the actor remains an underrated star of Hindi Cinema.
And on his 46th birthday (March 28), let’s revisit his inspiring journey in the showbiz world which essays the rise, fall, and comeback of a hero.
Akshaye Khanna made his debut with the film Himalay Putra in 1997. Though the film remained unnoticed, his screen presence in the film was appreciated. And that earned him a pivotal role in JP Dutta’s classic war drama Border. Playing the supporting role of commander Dharamvir Singh, Khanna left a lasting impression on the viewers’ minds. The film Border marked as his official entry into the Hindi Cinema.
After starring in a few more films, Khanna’s major breakthrough came in 1999 with Rishi Kapoor’s directorial debut Aa AB Laut Chalen. Furthermore, he featured alongside Aishwarya Rai and Anil Kapoor in the musical film Taal. His performance garnered him great reviews from the audience as well as the critics. Later in 2001, Farhan Akhtar’s Dil Chahta hai made him a renowned star of the Hindi film industry. Khanna’s performance in the coming-0f-age drama is still hailed widely.
Also, the 2002 thriller Humraaz became an important highlight of the actor’s prolific career. Playing the character of Karan, Khanna essayed a role with various shades for the first time. His performance was hailed by both masses and critics alike.
After tasting the success of the showbiz world, Khanna was at the peak of his career. He later featured in a few classic comedies Hulchul and Hungama. Khanna’s chemistry with Kareena Kapoor in Hulchul made them a fan favourite pairing. The duo later appeared in the film 36 China Town essaying different chemistry altogether. In fact, Kareena in one of her early interviews had tagged Akshaye as the best co-star to work with.
However, every happiness comes with an expiry date! Khanna starred in many mainstream movies which underperformed at the box office. And that’s where the actor’s decline began. Though his performances in every film were appreciated, the film’s low box office number became a concern for showrunners.
Khanna’s career took an unexpected turn after several box-office flops. However, the actor never gave up and decided to experiment with his craft of performing. In 2007, Akshaye starred in Feroz Khan’s directorial Gandhi, My Father. The film was based on Mahatma Gandhi’s relationship with his elder son Harilal Gandhi. Khanna played the role of Harilal which proved his range as an actor.
His noteworthy performance was highly appreciated by the critics. And since then, the actor became quite selective about his script choices. Later Abbas-Mustan’s Race came as a much-needed change for Khanna. And once again his career was back on track. T
Khanna then appeared in many moderate Bollywood films including Dishoom and the crime thriller Mom. And his greatest comeback came with the 2019 film Section 375. Playing the role of a lawyer Tarun Saluja, the actor received critical acclaim. Fans too showered the actor’s performance with immense love and appreciation.
Also, playing the role of Sanjaya Baru in The Accidental Prime Minister, garnered the actor critical appreciation. In the film, the actor’s character broke the fourth wall interacting with the audience, one of its kind in Indian Cinema. And now the actor will be soon making his digital debut with ZEE5’s State Of Seige: Temple Attack.
Some of the best flicks of Akshay Khanna are exclusively available on ZEE5. Be it the musical romance Taal or his extraordinary performance in Gandhi: My Father. Also, Aa Ab Laut Chalen, 36 China Town, Mom, The Accidental Prime Minister, and No Problem are among the major highlights of Khanna’s career you can watch now.
Akshaye Khanna’s story of rise, fall, and comeback proves that there’s no end to an artist’s life. We wish this talented actor a very happy birthday and an eventful year ahead.
Meanwhile, stay tuned to ZEE5 for more interesting content and stories.
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