Akshay Kumar From Rajiv Bhatia, ‘Khiladi’ Reveals Real Reason Of Name Change: ‘No Pandit Advised Me’

Akshay Kumar, one of Bollywood’s most prominent actors, recently shared the unexpected reason behind his name change from Rajiv Bhatia. In an interview with Galatta Plus, Akshay disclosed that the change was not influenced by a priest’s suggestion, as some might assume, but was inspired by a pivotal moment in his early career.

Akshay made his film debut in 1987 with Mahesh Bhatt’s “Aaj.” Although he was not the lead actor in the film, a significant moment involving the film’s hero, Kumar Gaurav, left a lasting impact on him.

In the interview, Akshay recounted, “Do you know what was Kumar Gaurav’s name in the film? Akshay. That’s how I got my name. Not many people know this. So, my real name is Rajiv, and during the shoot, I just casually asked what is the name of the hero in the film, they said Akshay. I told them, I want to keep my name as Akshay!”

Akshay also mentioned that the then-Prime Minister of India, Rajiv Gandhi, shared his birth name. “Rajiv is a good name and I think back then, Rajiv Gandhi was the Prime Minister or something. So it was a great name but I changed it just aise hi (just like that). It wasn’t like some pandit advised me to change my name! My father also asked me, what’s wrong with you? But I told him the same, that the hero’s name in my first film was this, so I will keep it!”

Currently, Akshay Kumar has a busy schedule with several upcoming projects. He was recently seen in “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan” and “Sarfira,” which was released this past Friday. His future film lineup includes “Khel Khel Mein,” “Sky Force,” “Singham Again,” “Jolly LLB 3,” “Welcome to the Jungle,” “Hera Pheri 3,” and “Shankara.” Additionally, Akshay is set to make his Telugu debut with a cameo in “Kannappa.”

This revelation adds another intriguing chapter to Akshay Kumar’s illustrious career, highlighting a spontaneous decision that has since become an integral part of his identity in the film industry.