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Akshay Kumar stands tall as one of the most successful and bankable stars in Indian cinema. Over the years, he has not only ruled Bollywood but has also started making his presence felt in South films. With countless milestones to his name and a loyal fanbase that remains unparalleled, the Khiladi star continues to inspire.
As he celebrates his 58th birthday, we revisit a remarkable part of his 33-year journey- from receiving a modest Rs 5,001 to commanding a staggering Rs 90 crore today.
The Khiladi’s Early Days
Through sheer dedication and discipline, Akshay Kumar became one of the biggest stars in Indian cinema. But his first paycheque was far from the massive numbers he commands today. In an exclusive chat with Pinkvilla, he recalled the amount- a sum of less than Rs 10,000.
His First Paycheque
When asked about it, Akshay revealed, “My first cheque was from Deedar. From Mr Pramod Chakravorty Ji, I got Rs 5,001. I’d signed the film for Rs 50,000.”
Interestingly, this was not for his 1991 debut film Saugandh, as many might assume, but for Deedar.
From Small Cheque to Big Success
From receiving his first salary of Rs 5,001 to now reportedly charging Rs 90 crore for a film alongside Saif Ali Khan, Akshay Kumar’s journey is nothing short of inspirational.
Luck Over Hard Work
Reflecting on his career, the Hera Pheri star credited his success more to fortune than effort. As he explained, “It’s 70 per cent luck and 30 per cent hard work. I think a man’s career, if it’s successful or whatever he does, it’s 70 per cent luck and 30 per cent hard work.”
With this belief, Akshay continues to inspire the youth to keep striving and never stop trying.
