Latest news with #Saugandh
Time of India
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
This Indian actor's first cheque was Rs 5,000. Now his net worth is Rs 2,500 crore and owns villas across the world. Check his source of income
From pocketing Rs 5,001 for his first film, Deedar, to commanding over Rs 90 crore per project today, Akshay Kumar 's financial journey is nothing short of a Bollywood blockbuster. Once armed with just determination, the Khiladi of Hindi cinema is now one of the highest-paid actors in the world, with Forbes reporting a staggering net worth of Rs 2,500 crore. And the story doesn't end at just films. Kumar's empire spans production houses , fashion, gaming, sports, real estate, and startup investments, proving he's not just a superstar on-screen, but a savvy businessman off it too. First paycheck In an interview with Pinkvilla, Akshay Kumar revealed that his first paycheck was a modest Rs 5,001, not for his 1991 debut Saugandh, but for Deedar, signed for Rs 50,000 by filmmaker Pramod Chakravorty. Today, the same actor is said to earn anywhere between Rs 60 crore to Rs 145 crore per film, as per Forbes, depending on the project, making his rise not just inspirational, but aspirational. Akshay Kumar file photo From Rs 5,001 to now earning in crores, let's take a look at Akshay Kumar's source of income and net worth- Production powerhouse Akshay launched Hari Om Entertainment in 2008, now known as Cape Of Good Films. The banner has produced hits like Airlift, Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, and OMG 2. He also co-founded Grazing Goat Pictures, which backed Jamai Raja and Singh Is Bliing. His next big production: Jolly LLB 3, with Arshad Warsi. Dressed for success In 2023, Kumar ventured into fashion with his athleisure brand Force IX, a collaboration with Maniish Mandhana. The label reflects his fitness-forward persona and quickly gained popularity among fans and fitness enthusiasts alike. Investing in Indian sports A die-hard fitness fan, Akshay took his passion further by investing in two kabaddi teams , as per GQ India: Khalsa Warriors in the World Kabaddi League and Bengal Warriors in the Pro Kabaddi League, betting big on homegrown talent and traditional sports. Gaming and going digital Post the PUBG ban, Kumar introduced FAU-G, an online battle game, with 20% of its profits pledged to the Bharat Ke Veer Trust. Startup-savvy The actor has made strategic investments in the digital space, too. In 2019, he backed health-tech startup GOQii, alongside Ratan Tata . A year later, he joined hands with Rana Daggubati to launch Socialswag, a platform connecting fans to celebrities via masterclasses and live chats. A real estate mogul Akshay's luxurious property portfolio spans countries. As per GQ India, in Mumbai, he resides in an Rs 80 crore sea-facing duplex in Juhu with Twinkle Khanna. He also owns a Portuguese-style villa in Goa, a beach house in Mauritius, and multiple homes in Toronto, Canada. What's next for him? Akshay will soon appear in Kannappa, a Telugu mythological film alongside Prabhas and Mohanlal, slated for a theatrical release on June 27, 2025. While it's only a cameo, it shows Kumar's growing influence across industries and regions. He also has Jolly LLB 3, which is slated for release in September.
Pink Villa
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
From Rs 5,001 to Rs 90 crore: Akshay Kumar's salary rise in 33 years will leave you stunned
Akshay Kumar is one of the most successful, beloved, and bankable actors in the entertainment industry. Since he started working in the industry, this actor has achieved numerous milestones and garnered a fanbase that remains unmatched. However, he has become a huge star through his sheer hard work and dedication. Earlier, in an exclusive chat with us, Akshay revealed the amount of his first paycheque, which is even less than Rs 10,000. Akshay Kumar reveals his first paycheque In an exclusive conversation with Pinkvilla, Akshay Kumar was asked about his first paycheque. The actor disclosed it was, "Rs 5,001." When asked if it was for his 1991 film, Saugandh, the actor refused, adding, "My first cheque was from Deedar. From Mr Pramod Chakravorty Ji, I got Rs 5,001." He further disclosed, "I'd signed the film for Rs 50,000." From earning his first paycheck of Rs 5,001 to now reportedly charging Rs 90 crore for a film alongside Saif Ali Khan, Akshay Kumar's journey has truly been inspirational. Watch Akshay Kumar's exclusive interview with Pinkvilla here- Reflecting on his journey, the Hera Pheri actor credited his luck more than his hard work. Akshay said, "It's 70 per cent luck and 30 per cent hard work." Emphasising on this topic, Kumar said, "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." He encouraged the youth to keep on trying for success. Along with this, Akshay is also in the news as Paresh Rawal has taken an unexpected exit from Hera Pheri 3. Following the exit, the matter took a legal turn when Akshay's company sued Rawal for Rs 25 crore. Giving an exclusive update about it, the actor recently told Pinkvilla that he is hopeful about everything going well. He said, "Everything will go well only. I know, for sure." Over the years, Akshay Kumar has delivered massive hits like Hera Pheri, Welcome, Housefull, OMG, and more. At present, he is gearing up for his upcoming Telugu mythological saga titled Kannappa. While Vishnu Manchu plays the lead role, Akshay will make a special appearance in the movie along with actors Mohanlal and Prabhas. Kannappa is slated to hit theatres on June 27, 2025.
Time of India
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Nostalgia: Akshay Kumar bursts into laughter watching his first-ever screen test
Akshay Kumar is surely one of the most versatile actors in Bollywood and his career journey is surely inspirational. Before the action star image, before the mega-hits and patriotic blockbusters, Akshay Kumar was just another young man chasing his Bollywood dream. Let's take a look at a rare throwback clip which gives a peek at his very first screen test, shot for his 1991 debut, 'Saugandh'. The footage resurfaced during a rerun of 'Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai', where host Farooq Shaikh surprised Akshay with the video during their chat. That Hair, That Energy, Even Akshay Couldn't Hold Back As the screen lit up with his younger self showing off martial arts moves, Akshay burst into laughter. 'Look at my hair!' he said, clearly amused and slightly embarrassed. With his long locks and raw performance, it's a far cry from the polished star we know today. Farooq joined in, and the two shared a good laugh. It's not often that we get to see stars watch themselves in such early, awkward moments—and enjoy them with such honesty. From Nervous Newcomer to Bollywood Mainstay The clip may be from the '90s, but it still resonates. Akshay started with small roles, slowly carving a niche with his action skills. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Trade Bitcoin & Ethereum – No Wallet Needed! IC Markets Start Now Undo It was 'Khiladi' (1992) that truly kicked things off, and from there, it's been a steady climb—'Mohra', 'Hera Pheri', 'Singh is Kinng', 'Airlift', 'Mission Mangal', and more. Basking in 'Housefull 5' success Currently Akshay Kumar is basking in the success of his recently released comedy entertainer film 'Housefull 5' which is receiving decent reviews from the audiemces. Akshay Kumar's previous outing, the court drama film 'Kesari 2' also had received good reviews from the audiences and became a decent hit. Akshay Kumar also impressed the audiences with the aerial action flick 'Sky Force'. Check out Akshay Kumar's first modeling audition ever! Housefull 5: Akshay Kumar Goes Undercover In 'Killer Mask'
India.com
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
Meet superstar whose career was revived after Sunny Deol and Ajay Devgn rejected this film, earned three times its budget, movie was…, his name is…
In ever-shifting landscape of Bollywood casting, some films take unexpected turns before reaching the silver screen. One such project, which eventually became a notable entry in early 2000s cinema, was originally envisioned with two of the industry's top action stars. In a recent interview, the director revealed that both Sunny Deol and Ajay Devgn were approached for the lead role but exited the project at different stages. What followed was a surprising casting choice that helped shape the film's final identity. Let's see who this actor was who has now become a superstar. The Most Talented Superstar of Bollywood The actor we are talking about here is Akshay Kumar , who is currently celebrating the release of his latest movie, Housefull 5 and has starred in more than 150 films throughout his career that has lasted over three decades. Akshay Kumar made his entry into the film industry with a leading role in the 1991 film Saugandh . Throughout the years, he became a key figure in many movies; however, he struggled to attain the stardom or commercial success he desired. This all changed with the 1999 release of Jaanwar , which was directed and produced by Suneel Darshan and featured co-stars Karisma Kapoor and Shilpa Shetty alongside Akshay Kumar. However, many of you must not have known this, but for this, Akshay was not the first choice for the makers. Suneel Darshan's Revelation About Jaanwar's Casting Suneel Darshan told in a recent interview with India Today that Jaanwar was originally planned to star Sunny Deol and later Ajay Devgn , both of whom declined to participate. He said, 'Jaanwar wasn't written for Akshay. With Sunny Deol, the film was initially intended. We were almost ready to travel when we disagreed about some nasty matters. These items are still pending. So I decided to move on and find someone else.' Suneel Darshan further elaborated and said, 'Ajay and I met on a Saturday and came to an agreement on the film. We were set to finalize everything that Monday, but Sunday changed everything,' as the director received an unexpected call, 'It came from someone I had never encountered before that was Akshay Kumar. He was very eager to meet right away. I welcomed him over, and he expressed his desire to star in Jaanwar. He inquired, 'Would you think about making the film with me?'' Suneel Darshan admitted he was initially hesitant about casting Akshay Kumar, as the actor 'was experiencing the lowest point of his career' at that time. Suneel Darshan continued, 'However, I considered, 'Here's a good-looking, disciplined actor who is committed to giving 100% of himself.' He even remarked, 'Sir, I will give you 100% of myself,' and his words stayed with me.' With a production budget of Rs 4 crore , Jaanwar grossed more than Rs 12 crore at the box office, marking not only a financial triumph but also rejuvenating Akshay's career, which had been struggling with several unsuccessful films until then.
India.com
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
This actor was first choice for Ajay Devgn Phool aur Kaante, was removed from film due to..., now a superstar, name is....
Ajay Devgan, a superstar who has been making a name for himself on the silver screen for the past 33 years, began his film career with 'Phool Aur Kaante'. Ajay gained to stardom after starring in his debut film. His film was a hit, and he became a star overnight. Since then, his popularity in the profession has remained constant. However, few people are aware that Ajay grabbed his debut film, Phool Aur Kaante, after it was offered to a superstar. Let's identify who that star was. The Film Was First Offered To… The actor to whom the film was first offered was none other than the Khiladi of Bollywood. Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgn began their careers together. While Phool Aur Kaante was released in 1991, Akshay's debut film, Saugandh , was also released the same year. However, Akshay's debut film may have been Phool Aur Kaante. Ajay was not the first choice for this as the makers had initially presented it to the superstar. When Akshay Revealed About Throwing Out From… In March 2020, during the trailer launch of his film Sooryavanshi , Akshay revealed the incident. He said, 'Hum dono ne, apna career saath mein hi shuru kiya tha. Aisa shuru kiya tha, ek hi film ke liye dono lade the. Pehli film jo humari thi, Phool Aur Kaante. Jisme pehle main tha phir mujhe dhakka maar ke ise le liya gaya tha.'' He further told that just the day before the shoot, he received a call and was told ''Bhai ap mat aana kisi aur ko le liya hai.'' As per reports, due to Akshay's commitments with other projects and production delays became a major concern for makers due to which the actor was replaced with Ajay Devgn. More about Phool Aur Kaante Renowned director Sandesh Kohli helmed Phool Aur Kaante, while Dinesh B Patel backed the project. Tamil actress Madhoo played the lead alongside Ajay Devgn in the film, which was released in 1991. Along with Ajay, this was Madhoo's debut Bollywood film. At its initial release, the film gained tremendous response at box office and both actors gained overnight stardom. The action-thriller, which was made on a budget of Rs 2.5 crore , became huge success, grossing Rs 11.50 crore at the domestic box office.
