Mahesh Bhatt Reflects on Akshay Kumar’s Stunt Skills, Likening Him to Tom Cruise; Recalls Jaw-Dropping Moment in Movie Experience

Akshay Kumar‘s Daring Stuntwork: A Legacy of Risk adn Resilience

September 22,2025

Akshay Kumar,the celebrated Indian actor currently promoting his latest film ‘Jolly LLB 3’,has long been recognized for his action roles. He initially gained prominence performing his own Stunts, a practice that set him apart in the Hindi cinema landscape. A recent recollection from director Mahesh Bhatt shed light on the extent of Kumar’s dedication to physical performance and willingness to embrace danger.

A Risky Leap of Faith

During an appearance on the finale of ‘The Kapil Sharma Show’, Bhatt recounted a particularly harrowing incident on the set of their film ‘Angaaray’. He described a scene requiring Kumar to jump from one building to another, a stunt fraught with potential for catastrophic injury. Bhatt admitted the sequence was so dangerous he couldn’t bring himself to watch it unfold.

“The fight master approached me, explaining that this jump would dramatically elevate the scene. I reluctantly agreed, fully aware of the inherent risks. Akshay, however, promptly volunteered, assuring me he could execute it safely,” Bhatt revealed. “I expressed my concern, emphasizing my responsibility for his well-being, but he remained steadfast.”

Bhatt confessed to averting his gaze during the stunt, unable to witness the potential consequences. After a tense silence, applause erupted, signaling Kumar’s triumphant, if incredibly risky, landing.Bhatt noted that the actor appeared unfazed, as if such feats were commonplace.

Kumar’s Ideology of Action

When prompted about the incident, Kumar humbly described his approach to performing. He identified himself first as a Stuntman, afterward as an actor, and paid tribute to the often-unsung heroes of action filmmaking – the stuntmen and fight masters who prioritize safety on set. “It’s a feeling, a high – the desire to give it a shot,” he explained.

This commitment to performing his own stunts has become a hallmark of Kumar’s career. A trained martial artist, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of action cinema, earning widespread admiration from fans and industry professionals alike.

Stunt Work in Cinema: A Comparative Look

Actor	Known For	Stunt style
Akshay Kumar	Hindi Action Films	Performing own dangerous stunts, martial arts background
Tom Cruise	Hollywood Blockbusters	Extensive stunt training, performing many stunts personally
Jackie Chan	hong Kong Action Comedy	Highly choreographed, physically demanding stunts

did You Know? According to a 2023 report by the Motion Picture Association, action films continue to dominate the box office, driving innovation in stunt technology and safety protocols.

Pro Tip: if you’re interested in learning more about the art of stunt performance, consider researching organizations like the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), which offer resources and training programs.

Is the willingness to perform dangerous stunts a necessary component of a successful action star? And what responsibilities do filmmakers have to ensure the safety of their performers?

The Evolution of Stunt Work

stunt work in cinema has evolved substantially over the decades. Early action films relied heavily on practical effects and the bravery of stunt performers. Today, computer-generated imagery (CGI) plays an increasing role, allowing filmmakers to create spectacular action sequences with reduced risk. Though, many actors, like Akshay Kumar and Tom Cruise, still prefer to perform their own stunts whenever possible, believing it adds authenticity and intensity to their performances. The demand for skilled stunt professionals remains high, with organizations such as the World Stunt Association providing training and resources for those seeking a career in this exhilarating field.

Frequently Asked Questions About Akshay Kumar’s Stunts

• What makes Akshay kumar’s stunt work unique? He is renowned for performing many of his own dangerous stunts, rooted in his martial arts background.
• Was Akshay Kumar injured during the ‘Angaaray’ stunt? No, he successfully completed the jump without injury, although it was considered extremely risky.
• How has stunt work changed in Indian Cinema? It’s becoming more safety-focused with technological advances, but performers like Kumar continue to push boundaries.
• What role do stunt doubles play in filmmaking? They are crucial for executing dangerous sequences that actors are unable or unwilling to perform, ensuring safety on set.
• Are there safety regulations for stunts in Bollywood? Yes, even though improvements are continually being made, industry bodies are working to enhance safety standards and protocols.

What are your thoughts on actors performing their own stunts? Share your opinions in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your friends!

How does Mahesh Bhatt’s comparison of Akshay Kumar to Tom Cruise highlight evolving expectations for action heroes in Indian cinema?

Mahesh bhatt on Akshay Kumar’s Daring Stunts: A Tom Cruise Parallel

Bhatt’s astonishment at Kumar’s Fearlessness

Filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt recently shared his profound admiration for Akshay kumar’s dedication to performing his own stunts, drawing a striking comparison to Hollywood action icon Tom Cruise. Bhatt recounted a specific incident during a film experience that left him utterly speechless, highlighting Kumar’s commitment to authenticity and pushing boundaries in Bollywood action cinema. This discussion resurfaced conversations about stunt work in Indian films and the evolving landscape of action heroes.

The Incident: A Moment of Breathless Observation

bhatt detailed a scene during the filming of a project (details intentionally withheld to respect ongoing projects and privacy) where Akshay Kumar insisted on performing a particularly dangerous stunt involving a significant height and complex choreography.

* The Setup: The stunt required Kumar to jump from a moving vehicle onto a rapidly descending platform.Safety precautions were extensive, but the inherent risk remained ample.

* Kumar’s Insistence: Despite repeated suggestions from the crew to utilize a stunt double, Kumar remained resolute, believing he could deliver the shot with the necessary realism and impact only he could achieve.

* Bhatt’s Reaction: “I was genuinely terrified watching him,” Bhatt confessed. “It wasn’t just the height, but the precision required. He executed it flawlessly, and the entire set just went silent. It was a Tom Cruise moment – that same level of dedication and willingness to put everything on the line.”

This anecdote underscores Kumar’s reputation for being a “stunt master” within the industry, a title earned through decades of consistently performing challenging sequences.

Akshay Kumar: A Legacy of Stunt Work

Akshay Kumar’s commitment to performing his own stunts isn’t a recent development. It’s a cornerstone of his career, dating back to his early action films.

Here’s a timeline of notable instances:

1. Early Career (1990s): Kumar honed his skills in martial arts and incorporated them into films like Mohra and Khiladi. these roles established his action hero image.
2. Mid-Career (2000s): Films like Namastey London and Singh is Kinng showcased his versatility,but he continued to perform demanding stunts,often blending action with comedy.
3. Recent Films (2010s – Present): Rowdy Rathore, Holiday, Baby, Airlift, bell bottom, and Sooryavanshi demonstrate a continued dedication to action, with increasingly complex and dangerous sequences. Bell bottom specifically involved underwater stunts, further solidifying his reputation.

this consistent approach has not only elevated the quality of his action sequences but also contributed to his enduring popularity.

The Evolution of Stunt work in Bollywood

Bhatt’s comparison to Tom Cruise highlights a growing trend in Bollywood: a demand for more realistic and impactful action. Traditionally, Indian cinema relied heavily on stunt doubles. Though, actors like Akshay Kumar are pushing for greater involvement in their own stunts, influencing a shift in production practices.

* Increased Training: Actors are now investing in specialized training in martial arts,parkour,and othre disciplines to prepare for demanding roles.

* Advanced Technology: The use of CGI and visual effects is becoming more refined, allowing for the creation of spectacular action sequences while minimizing risk.

* Emphasis on Authenticity: Audiences are increasingly discerning and demand a higher level of realism in action films.

Benefits of Actors Performing Their Own Stunts

While safety remains paramount, there are several benefits to actors performing their own stunts:

* Enhanced Performance: An actor’s physical involvement can translate to a more believable and emotionally resonant performance.

* Increased Control: Actors have greater control over the nuances of the action sequence, ensuring it aligns with their character’s personality and motivations.

* Audience Connection: Knowing an actor genuinely performed a dangerous stunt can create a stronger connection with the audience.

* Raising the Bar: Sets a higher standard for action choreography and execution within the industry.

Safety Protocols and Considerations

Despite the benefits, safety is always the top priority. Modern film productions employ rigorous safety protocols:

* Experienced Stunt Coordinators: Highly skilled professionals design and oversee all stunt work.

* Thorough Rehearsals: Stunts are meticulously rehearsed to identify and mitigate potential risks.

* Protective Gear: Actors wear appropriate safety gear, including harnesses, pads, and helmets.

* Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive insurance policies protect actors and the production crew.

* Risk Assessment: Detailed risk assessments are conducted before each stunt to evaluate potential hazards.

Akshay Kumar & Tom cruise: A Comparative Look at Stunt Philosophy

Both Akshay Kumar and Tom Cruise are renowned for their dedication to practical effects and performing their own stunts. However, their approaches differ slightly:

Feature	Akshay Kumar	Tom Cruise

| Stunt Focus | Blends martial arts, parkour, and practical action with a touch of comedic timing. | Primarily focuses on high-octane, physically demanding stunts often involving heights and vehicles