Akshay Kumar Recalls His First ₹3,500 Modelling Job That Changed His Life
Mumbai, October 29: Superstar Akshay Kumar, one of Bollywood’s most bankable and disciplined actors today, once had a very different life before entering the world of films. In a rare throwback interview with Lehren TV, the actor opened up about his early struggles, modest beginnings, and how an unexpected opportunity in modelling changed everything for him.
Before becoming the action hero known to millions as ‘Khiladi Kumar’, Akshay was a martial arts instructor in Mumbai. It was a chance encounter with one of his students that set him on the path to stardom — and a single photoshoot worth ₹3,500 that transformed his destiny.
From Martial Arts Teacher to Modelling Assignment
Recounting his journey, Akshay Kumar said he never imagined a life in front of the camera. He was content teaching martial arts until one day, a student suggested he try modelling.
“I used to teach martial arts,” Akshay recalled. “One of my students came to me and said, ‘Sir, why don’t you do modelling? You have the height, body, and physique — you should try it.’ I didn’t even know what modelling was. I asked what I had to do, and he said, ‘Just take a photograph and give it to me.’ So I took a photo for the first time, posed awkwardly, and gave it to him.”
Just a few weeks later, Akshay received his first modelling assignment — a turning point that marked the beginning of his journey toward fame.
Earning in Two Hours What He Made in a Month
The actor went on to describe the moment that made him realize the potential of his new profession. “For that assignment, I was paid about ₹3,500,” Akshay said. “At that time, the work I did for an entire month earned me only ₹4,000. But here, I got almost the same amount for just standing in a pose for two hours.”
He added that this experience felt “strange but exciting,” sparking a newfound curiosity about the entertainment industry. “I felt something unusual — a pull toward this line. I started modelling, and soon after that, I got my break in films. The rest is history.”
That moment marked the beginning of one of Bollywood’s most inspiring success stories — a journey from humble origins to superstardom through hard work, risk-taking, and self-belief.
Early Days of Struggle and Perseverance
Born as Rajiv Hari Om Bhatia in Punjab and raised in Delhi, Akshay Kumar moved to Mumbai to pursue his passion for martial arts. Before he got his first break, he reportedly worked as a waiter and chef in Bangkok while learning Muay Thai.
His persistence and discipline became the foundation of his success. After returning to India, Akshay taught martial arts in Mumbai to earn a living. His modelling assignment soon led to auditions, small roles, and eventually his debut as a leading actor in Saugandh (1991).
However, his real breakthrough came with the 1992 thriller Khiladi, which not only became a hit but also earned him the nickname “Khiladi Kumar” — a title that has defined his brand of cinema ever since.
Three Decades of Cinematic Excellence
Over the past three decades, Akshay Kumar has established himself as one of Indian cinema’s most versatile and reliable stars. From high-octane action roles to socially-driven dramas and comedies, his filmography boasts over 150 movies across genres.
His dedication to fitness, discipline, and professionalism has made him a role model for aspiring actors. Known for maintaining a strict routine and early lifestyle, Akshay continues to deliver box-office successes while balancing commercial appeal with meaningful cinema.
Awards and Accolades
Akshay Kumar’s talent and hard work have earned him numerous accolades over the years. He has won two National Film Awards — including one for Rustom (2016) — and several Filmfare Awards recognizing his performances in both action and comedy.
In 2009, he was honoured with the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, for his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema. Beyond acting, Akshay has also ventured into production, fitness advocacy, and philanthropy, supporting causes related to health, education, and disaster relief.
The Man Behind the Superstar
Despite his global fame and immense success, Akshay Kumar has always maintained a down-to-earth persona. Often seen crediting his journey to discipline and destiny, he continues to emphasize hard work as the key to success.
In multiple interviews, the actor has said that his life could have taken a completely different path if not for that first modelling job. What began as a casual suggestion from a student turned into a life-changing moment — one that introduced him to a world he had never imagined being part of.
Inspiring a Generation
Akshay’s story resonates deeply with millions who dream of making it big despite humble beginnings. His life is a testament to the power of seizing opportunities, staying disciplined, and never giving up.
Whether it was moving abroad to learn martial arts, returning to India to teach, or stepping into modelling on a whim — every chapter of his journey reflects courage and determination. Today, he continues to inspire the younger generation through his fitness routine, work ethic, and choice of socially conscious films.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
Akshay Kumar’s journey from earning ₹3,500 in his first modelling assignment to becoming one of Bollywood’s most celebrated actors is a true story of perseverance and destiny. His humility, discipline, and courage to explore new paths turned an ordinary martial arts instructor into a global superstar.
As Akshay continues to reinvent himself on screen and off, his story stands as a reminder that sometimes, life’s most defining moments come from unexpected opportunities — if one dares to take the first step.