THEY ARE THE KHANS FOR A REASON: AKKI Akshay says it’d be wrong to compete with Shah Rukh, Aamir, Salman

Twenty five years in an industry don’t necessarily make one haughty, shows actor Akshay Kumar. He debuted in Bollywood with the 1991 hit, Saugandh, and the 48-year-old is still as inspired and excited about his career. Admitting that family keeps him going, he talks about competition and moolah.

Few stars like you and the Khans are considered the safest bet at the box office. Do you ever think of competition?

The Khans are a force to be reckoned with, but they are the ‘Khans’ for a reason. I’ve never competed with them, it’d be wrong of me to want to. I know what I am and where my name and effort can take me. I’m happy with my space in this world. I admire their star power and salute their success, as they do with mine, but we’re not in the same race.

Does featuring among world’s highest-paid celebs of 2016 make you feel powerful?

I don’t usually keep track or believe in the number game but to be one of the only two Indians (he and SRK) in the list is a matter of immense happiness, especially when one comes from humble beginnings. I believe in doing my best and it has paid off so far. I feel blessed.

After 25 years in the industry, what keeps you going even now?

Making my family proud. They keep me going through every twist and turn in life. If I couldn’t come back home to them at the end of every day, I wouldn’t be half the man that I am today. They are my secret ingredient (to success).

It has taken time to build confidence in everyone that I’ve more than just one acting muscle... Now, the industry supports my choice of cinema AKSHAY KUMAR, ACTOR