Ameesha Patel is proud of Akshaye Khanna for 'slapping all with performances and not PR'

Akshaye Khanna’s commanding turn as Rehman Dakait in Aditya Dhar’s espionage thriller Dhurandhar has firmly placed him back at the centre of Bollywood conversations. Critics, audiences, and industry peers alike are applauding his intensity and restraint, with many declaring that after Bobby Deol, Khanna has delivered the most impactful comeback- making 2025 “his year.”

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The anticipation around Khanna has only intensified with his upcoming portrayal of Daitya Guru Shukracharya in PVCU’s Mahakali, especially after his chilling performance as Aurangzeb in Vicky Kaushal-starrer Chhaava and as Rehman Dakait in Dhurandhar.

Ameesha Patel Applauds Talent Over Hype

Amid the growing buzz, Akshaye Khanna’s Humraaz co-star Ameesha Patel once again voiced her admiration for the actor, praising him for relying solely on merit rather than publicity.

On Monday evening, she took to X and wrote, "If u want to trend on social media then talk about AKHSAY KHANNA I’f u want ur film to run then let’s take AKSHAY KHANNA .. .. seems like Brand AKSHAY has finally opened the eyes of all who were blind for so many Years and all seem to suddenly find their long lost love for him proud of u Akshu for slapping all with ur performances n not PR." (sic)

Fans Push Back and Pitch New Collaborations

While Ameesha’s words struck a chord, fans of the Chhaava actor were quick to respond, asserting that Akshaye Khanna’s talent was never overlooked and that he has always been deeply respected for his craft.

Several fans also urged Ameesha Patel to reunite with Khanna for a Humraaz sequel, reigniting nostalgia around the 2002 thriller. 

A Gadar 3 Suggestion Sparks Interest

One fan even proposed casting Akshaye Khanna in Gadar 3. Responding enthusiastically, Ameesha wrote, "Good suggestion … Akshaye will kill it in gadar 3 fr sure (fire emojis) shall surely convey ur thoughts to @ZeeStudios_" (sic).

A Longstanding Bond and Continued Praise

This is not the first time Ameesha Patel has celebrated Akshaye Khanna’s recent success. Following Dhurandhar’s strong box office performance, she shared a nostalgic photograph of the duo during Humraaz promotions in London.

Also Read: Saumya Tandon was terrified to really slap Rehman Dakait in Dhurandhar, Akshaye Khanna said, 'Go for it'

She wrote, "GREATNESS THEN n EVEN GREATER NOW!! That’s AKSHAY KHANNA (Akshu as I fondly call him)Unassuming n ego less!Throwback 2 LONDON during HUMRAAZ promotions @ dinner along with my cousins from PARIS!I don’t think he even realises he has BLOWN the NATION w/ his performances this year!" (sic)

Interestingly, on Sunday, veteran actress Mousumi Chatterjee praised Akshaye and wrote on X, "Couldnt Be More Happier,More Proud To Have Known & Worked With This Man. Known Him As A Boy. His Parents And Brother Rahul Must Be So Proud. My Meghaa's Heartthrob Winning Hearts Simply By Sticking to His Beliefs And His Dedication To His Work. Love You @AkshayeKhanna" (sic)

Undeniably, Akshaye Khanna’s magnetic comeback has renewed faith in his quiet brilliance, unlocking fresh possibilities across powerful narratives, ambitious franchises, and layered characters that promise an exciting new chapter ahead.