I prefer following my own path and instinct: Akshay Kumar

In Part 2 of this conversation with the Sarfira actor, he shares his affinity towards interesting characters, dealing with harsh scrutiny, and his approach to scripts

Edited excerpts:

Many producers, especially in the South, expect heroism from the scripts — to make the lead more macho. Has that never been part of your calculation?

I know today there is an expectation to show the hero larger-than-life and “pan-India” and all that. I just want to see my character. I’ve done films where my roles are relatively smaller. For me, it’s about being associated with a great film. I want to be a part of the buzz. If the film is good, I’ll do it even if my role is small.

Do you think the scrutiny is higher on someone like you because you are one of the top stars?

It is there. People in the industry love seeing my films fail. Once, I was walking on the red carpet and there were all these channels asking questions; one of them asked me, “Akshayji, your last 4 films didn’t work. How do you feel?” So, I looked at the channel name and said, “I feel exactly as you do when your channel doesn’t work.” He was so embarrassed that he told the other person not to put this question anywhere else. I think everyone should just keep working; films doing well or not is beside the point. My father has taught me to be honest in my work and focus on it. Lots of people will come and give you advice about things. You follow your instinct. My godfather, Mr. Pramod Chakravorty, who gave me my first break, taught me a few things that up-and-coming actors can follow if they want to. Always be a producer’s man. Whatever the producer goes through, go with him and take his pain with you.

Is there a different approach you follow while approaching a comic scene versus a dramatic scene?

I just follow my director and my writer. I don’t read the script, I tell them to read it. Because if I read it, I’ll do so in my voice. If I ask the director to read it, it’s easier for me to understand what they expect me to do. That way, he is happy and I’m happy because I’m getting a different approach to doing a particular scene. If I start reading it, I’ll have the same approach because I only have one.  

Watch the full interview at: