Akshaye Khanna is currently basking in the glory of his performance in the recently released spy thriller Dhurandhar, with many calling 2025 "The Year of Akshaye Khanna". His portrayal of Rehman Dakait, a complex and powerful Pakistani crime lord and politician, has particularly resonated with audiences, adding another feather to his already decorated cap. This comes on the heels of his portrayal of Aurangzeb in Chhaava, further solidifying his position as one of the standout performers of the year.
Khanna's performance in Dhurandhar is being lauded for its depth, intensity, and nuanced portrayal of a character walking a tightrope between danger and charm. Fans have been particularly captivated by his screen presence and effortless ability to command attention, with some reviews even suggesting that he "outshone" the lead actor. Social media is abuzz with praise, with many highlighting his entry scene and overall embodiment of the character, including his traditional Balochi attire.
Born on March 28, 1975, to actor Vinod Khanna, Akshaye Khanna made his debut in the 1997 film Himalay Putra. While the film didn't fare well, his subsequent release that same year, J.P. Dutta's war drama Border, proved to be a significant turning point. Border became a critical and commercial success, earning Khanna the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut. In Border, he played the role of Lieutenant Dharamvir Singh, a young soldier whose journey from a hesitant recruit to a courageous hero deeply touched the audience.
In the years following his debut, Khanna showcased his versatility across various genres. He achieved commercial success with films like Taal (1999), Dil Chahta Hai (2001), Hungama (2003), and Hulchul (2004). Dil Chahta Hai not only became a cult classic but also earned Khanna the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor. He also garnered critical acclaim for his performances in thrillers such as Humraaz (2002) and Deewangee (2002), as well as the biopic Gandhi, My Father (2007).
However, Khanna's career also saw its share of ups and downs. After a series of unsuccessful films, he took a four-year hiatus before returning to the screen in 2016 with Dishoom. He followed this with supporting roles in thrillers like Mom and Ittefaq in 2017, gradually regaining his footing in the industry. His portrayal of a defense lawyer in the legal drama Section 375 (2019) and a police officer in Drishyam 2 (2022) was widely appreciated, marking a significant comeback.
Akshaye Khanna's ability to immerse himself in diverse roles, whether emotional, comedic, or menacing, has solidified his reputation as a versatile and talented actor. His recent successes in Chhaava and Dhurandhar underscore his enduring appeal and his knack for choosing powerful scripts. In Dhurandhar, he portrays Rehman Dakait, a character based on a real-life figure, with chilling authenticity. Khanna's performance has not only captivated audiences but also sparked discussions about the sensitive political and social issues depicted in the film.
Despite his success, Khanna has maintained a low-key public persona, avoiding social media and focusing on his craft. This deliberate choice has further solidified his image as a dedicated actor whose talent speaks for itself. As 2025 draws to a close, Akshaye Khanna's stellar performances serve as a reminder of his enduring talent and his ability to captivate audiences with his nuanced and powerful portrayals.
