'If I didn’t become Shah Rukh Khan, does that mean I’m not a star?': Dhurandhar's Akshaye Khanna once explained why he never became a Bollywood superstar

After Dhurandhar hit theatres on December 5, it wasn’t Ranveer Singh but Akshaye Khanna who walked away with all the applause. Viewers have already begun calling him the “superstar of 2025” as his performance has become one of the biggest talking points of the film. His spontaneous dance sequence on the FA9LA track has gone viral, becoming a social media favourite overnight. As admiration pours in, several old videos of the actor have also resurfaced, including one interview that has once again sparked conversations about his long-standing place in Bollywood.

Akshaye Khanna on 'not becoming a Bollywood superstar'

In the clip, Akshaye is seen speaking to host Anurradha Prasad, who asks him why he never became a full-fledged “Bollywood star” despite delivering numerous memorable films. True to his grounded personality, Akshaye responds with clarity.



He explains that stardom comes from the work you do on screen and not from chasing labels. Drawing a comparison, he says that just like a businessman with a Rs 500 crore company cannot be called unsuccessful simply because he hasn’t achieved the stature of Ratan Tata or Dhirubhai Ambani, in the same way, not becoming Shah Rukh Khan doesn’t mean he hasn’t tasted success. For him, the measure of achievement goes far beyond such comparisons.

The video goes on to show Akshaye talking about the privilege of being a leading man in the film industry. He points out that in a country of over a billion people, only a very small number, perhaps 15 to 20, get the opportunity to headlined films.

Acknowledging this limited space, he says he feels grateful to have worked consistently for over 15–16 years, and that too entirely on his own terms. He adds that he never felt the need to reinvent himself artificially or indulge in publicity tactics. According to him, attending every industry party, seeking constant media attention, or manufacturing controversy for relevance was never the path he wished to take.

When she asks if he ever feels disappointed about not becoming a larger-than-life superstar despite his undeniable talent, Akshaye firmly says no. He mentions that he has no regrets and believes he has been blessed generously. He also addresses the outsider perception that he lives in a shell, saying that people may think so because he is a private person, not someone who fits into the flamboyant mould associated with many actors.

Akshaye Khanna's filmography in 2025

Professionally, Akshaye has had a remarkable run. He began the year with Chhaava, where he portrayed Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. His powerful performance opposite Vicky Kaushal’s Sambhaji Maharaj was widely praised, contributing to the film’s massive success at the box office. And now, with Dhurandhar, he has sealed his reputation as one of the most compelling screen presences of the year.

His entry scene in Dhurandhar, especially the impromptu dance that instantly became a viral trend, is being hailed by fans as iconic. Viewers have been calling his aura “unmatched,” praising how he elevates every frame he appears in.

The spy thriller has already crossed Rs 150 crore at the box office in India within five days. And while the film boasts a strong ensemble, including Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal and R. Madhavan, Akshaye Khanna has emerged as the unexpected scene-stealer. Did you watch Dhurandhar?