Akshay Kumar is known as one of the biggest superstars of the Indian film industry, and he has proved this with his 33 years of magnificent work. From some comedy classics which have stood the test of time such as Hera Pheri, Welcome and Singh is Kinng, to his more sombre roles in movies such as Airlift, Mission Mangal and Padman, Khiladi Kumar has shown that there is nothing he cannot do. Tales of his discipline, hard work and endless rigour are widely known and looked up to nationwide. Having embodied a variety of roles, Akshay Kumar has done it all. Let’s take a look at some movies that made Khiladi Kumar the blockbuster star that he is today.

Airlift

This thriller drama film followed Ranjit Katyal (played by Kumar), a Kuwait-based businessman as he carried out the evacuation of Indians based in Kuwait during the Invasion of Kuwait by Saddam Hussein's Iraq which led to the beginning of the Gulf War. The high-octane film and the conviction that Kumar got to this role, instilled a deep sense of patriotism and drove the audiences’ emotions, making it a highly impactful success at the box office.

Special 26

Stepping into the shoes of an undefeatable con artist, Kumar portrays Ajay Singh Rajput, as the film follows the story of him and his team as they impersonate CBI officers to orchestrate daring raids on prominent establishments. Kumar’s portrayal goes beyond the swagger and charm; he captures the calculated mind and meticulous planning that fuels Ajay's success. The film not only keeps audiences on the edge of their seats but also compels them to question authority and the vulnerabilities within the system.

Baby

This action spy thriller directed by Neeraj Pandey marked the second collaboration between Kumar and Pandey after Special 26. Stepping away from his role as a con artist, Kumar embarks upon the journey of portraying an officer from the Indian Intelligence system. The team strives to eliminate terrorists and their plots. Hailed as being one of Kumar’s career-best performances, Baby is a film that should not be missed!

Toilet: Ek Prem Katha

Moving away from humour and action, Kumar has been a part of several social-led films that do not just aim to entertain but also to impart some necessary social message to the audience. Toilet: Ek Prem Katha was one such film. The film campaigns to improve sanitation conditions in India, with an emphasis on the eradication of open defecation, especially in rural areas. With an exceptionally raw and honest performance, Kumar was able to reach his audiences on an emotional as well as an intellectual level with this film.

Rustom

This captivating story inspired by real-life events reflects Akshay Kumar’s National Award Winning performance. Kumar portrays Rustom Pavri, a decorated naval officer whose world is shattered when he discovers his wife's infidelity. Consumed by jealousy and a rigid sense of duty, Rustom takes drastic measures, leading to a sensational murder trial that gripped the nation in 1959. Kumar's performance is layered, he captures the pain of betrayal, the complexities of marital love, and the unwavering loyalty Rustom feels towards his profession. The film leaves audiences grappling with moral questions and the blurred lines between love, duty, and revenge.

Akshay Kumar’s exceptional movement between innumerable genres is what makes him one of the most versatile actors in the Indian film industry. His dedication, hard work and consistency are extremely rare, and it is also what his fans aspire to. Here’s looking forward to what he has in store for us next.