Akshay finally reveals the reason behind dropping his original name Rajiv Bhatia

Mumbai: Rajiv Bhatia took Bollywood by storm in the early 90’s with his rustic charm and his mean action moves. Over two decades down the line, he’s one of the most versatile superstars in Bollywood today. But not many would recognise him by that name. Because Akshay Kumar officially stopped being Rajiv Bhatia pretty early on in his career.

Though the trivia has become quite well-known by now, not many know the reason behind it.

The actor is currently busy promoting Taapsee Pannu’s upcoming film ‘Naam Shabana,’ which also has him reprising his role from ‘Baby’ in an extended cameo. While promoting the Shivam Nair directorial in Delhi, the actor got asked the reason behind the name change.

A surprised Akshay answered the question without any apprehension.

"No one has ever asked me this question. My first film was Aaj (1987) which was directed by Mahesh Bhatt and starred Kumar Gaurav. The name of Gaurav’s character was Akshay. I had a 4.5 second role in it and I would only observe Gaurav and his acting. I don’t know what happened but one day I just went to the court and got my name changed. I don’t know why I changed my name .... I just went to the Bandra East court and got it done. Main kucch bhi nahi tha us time pe phir bhi maine visiting card banwaye. Then I went out to get work, time was in my favour, and I got films after that,” he revealed.

Well, that’s quite an interesting tale, no denying.

Akshay, who’s been on an unprecedented career high with four straight 100-crore grossers since 2016, has a slew of interesting projects lined up.