Mumbai, India - Bollywood's very own daredevil, Akshay Kumar, known for his impeccable action sequences and versatile acting, is celebrating his 56th birthday today, on September 9th. Born Rajiv Hari Om Bhatia, this iconic actor and film producer has left an indelible mark on the Indian film industry, with a career spanning over three decades. As we celebrate his birthday, let's delve into some lesser-known facts about this superstar.
1. Childhood Mischief and Sporting Excellence
As a child, Akshay Kumar was a bundle of mischief. He displayed little interest in academics but excelled in sports, particularly cricket and volleyball. His early affinity for sports would later shape his career in Bollywood, where he became renowned for his physical prowess and dedication to performing his own stunts.
2. Journey into Martial Arts
In the 8th standard, Akshay embarked on a journey into martial arts. His passion for this discipline led him to Bangkok, where he studied martial arts extensively. In Thailand, he delved into the art of 'Muay Thai' and even worked as a Chef and waiter to support himself while honing his martial skills. Little did he know that these skills would play a pivotal role in his cinematic journey, as he incorporated them seamlessly into his action-packed roles.
3. Brush with Destiny: The Missed Opportunity
The path to stardom is often paved with missed opportunities. Surprisingly, Akshay Kumar auditioned for Deepak Tijori's role in the cult classic 'Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikander,' but fate had other plans, and he was rejected. This setback only fueled his determination to succeed in the world of cinema.
4. WWE Enthusiast
Beyond his on-screen heroics, Akshay Kumar is a passionate fan of WWE wrestling. In 2010, he had the incredible opportunity to meet WWE Superstar Kane at his residence in India. This meeting was a dream come true for the actor and showcased his genuine love for the world of sports entertainment.
5. The Superstitious Side
Akshay Kumar is not just known for his action-packed roles but also for his superstitions. He firmly believes that the number 9 is his lucky and gifted number. According to him, many significant events in his life have occurred around the number 9. This belief extends to the birth of his children, all of whom were born in the ninth month.
Akshay Kumar, often referred to as the "Bollywood Khiladi" for his fearless and athletic performances, continues to captivate audiences with his charm and versatility. Whether it's making us laugh with his impeccable comic timing or leaving us in awe with his daring stunts, he remains a true cinematic icon. On this special day, fans around the world join in celebrating the birthday of a man who has truly redefined the action genre in Indian cinema. Here's to many more years of entertainment and inspiration from Akshay Kumar. Happy 56th birthday to the Bollywood daredevil!
Vijay Raaz – A Versatile Actor Who Deserves the Spotlight