Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar celebrates his 58th birthday today. Over the last three decades, he has carved a unique place in the industry with more than 150 films across action, comedy, thrillers, and socially relevant dramas.
On this special day, Akshay took to Instagram to share an emotional note with fans. Posting a custom artwork designed by Rahul Nanda featuring some of his most iconic roles, Akshay wrote: “8 years in the making, 34 years in this industry, over 150 films & counting.
To everyone that ever believed in me, who bought a ticket, who signed me, produced me, directed me and guided me, this is your journey as much as mine. I’m just here to say an eternal ‘Thank You’ for every kind action, unconditional support, and words of encouragement. I am nothing without you, my Birthday is a dedication to all those that still believe me..”
The post went viral instantly, with fans and celebrities showering him with love and birthday wishes.
Over three decades, Akshay has evolved from an action hero to one of the most versatile actors in Indian cinema. From hardcore action to slapstick comedy, patriotic thrillers to emotional dramas, Akshay has done it all. On his birthday, here’s a look at his top 10 films that showcase his range and versatility.
Top 10 Akshay Kumar Movies That Showcase His Versatility
1. Khiladi (1992) and The Khiladi Series
Akshay’s big breakthrough came with Khiladi (1992), a suspense-action thriller that earned him the title of “Bollywood’s Khiladi.” Its success led to a string of sequels including Main Khiladi Tu Anari (1994), Sabse Bada Khiladi (1995), Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi (1996), Mr. & Mrs. Khiladi (1997), International Khiladi (1999), and Khiladi 420 (2000). Collectively, these films cemented Akshay’s action-hero image and gave him his iconic nickname.
2. Hera Pheri (2000)
This cult comedy turned Akshay into a household name for his impeccable comic timing as Raju. Hera Pheri changed his image from just an action star to a complete entertainer, making way for many comedy hits later in his career.
3. Sangharsh (1999)
One of Akshay’s most underrated performances, Sangharsh saw him play a brave CBI officer helping Preity Zinta’s character solve a disturbing case. His restrained yet powerful acting showcased a different side of him, proving his dramatic depth.
4. Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007)
A horror-comedy where Akshay played Dr. Aditya Shrivastav, the psychiatrist who unravels the mystery behind Manjulika. His balance of comedy, drama, and seriousness made this film a massive success and showed his adaptability to diverse genres.
5. Baby (2015)
In Baby, Akshay portrayed Ajay Singh Rajput, an undercover intelligence officer. His patriotic role, coupled with thrilling action sequences, won critical acclaim and further established him as Bollywood’s go-to actor for espionage thrillers.
6. Singh Is Kinng (2008) and Singh Is Bliing (2015)
Akshay’s comic-action avatar as Happy Singh in Singh Is Kinng became iconic, with the film turning into a blockbuster. Later, he reprised his Punjabi munda swag in Singh Is Bliing, which too connected well with audiences. These films blended humor, style, and action—making Akshay a crowd favorite.
7. Special 26 (2013)
Based on real-life heists, Akshay played a conman who led a team posing as CBI officers. His sharp performance, full of wit and intensity, showcased his flair for complex roles beyond action and comedy.
8. Toilet: Ek Prem Katha (2017)
A film with a social message, Akshay’s role highlighted the issue of sanitation in rural India. Balancing humor, drama, and awareness, the film became a box-office success and proved his commitment to meaningful cinema.
9. Rustom (2016)
Akshay won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his performance as Naval officer Rustom Pavri, loosely inspired by the infamous Nanavati case. His nuanced performance added gravitas to the courtroom drama.
10. Khakee (2004)
A gripping thriller directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, Khakee saw Akshay in a layered role as a police officer alongside Amitabh Bachchan and Ajay Devgn. His performance was lauded for its intensity and unpredictability, marking it as one of his career-best.
From martial arts-led action in the Khiladi series to socially conscious roles like Toilet: Ek Prem Katha and Pad Man, Akshay Kumar has proved time and again that he is Bollywood’s most versatile star. His Instagram birthday message reflects the gratitude and humility that have kept him grounded despite his superstar status.
As Akshay turns 58, fans celebrate not just his blockbuster films, but also his journey, resilience, and ability to constantly reinvent himself in the ever-changing world of Bollywood.