Akshaye Khanna is currently enjoying a significant career resurgence, marked by his widely praised performance in the recent film Dhurandhar. The actor's comeback has sparked considerable discussion within the film industry and among fans, with veteran director Priyadarshan weighing in on Khanna's enduring appeal.
Priyadarshan, who has worked with Akshaye Khanna in several films, stated that while award shows may have overlooked Khanna, the audience has always appreciated his talent. "Look at Akshaye's performance even in Drishyam 2. It's not just about Gen Z, people have always loved him," Priyadarshan remarked, emphasizing Khanna's consistent appeal across generations. He further added, "Earlier, PR and the media made an actor, but today people have their own opinions. You cannot close your eyes towards that. People talking about him today means he was always a genuinely favourite artiste. Award shows and all ignored him, but I count him as one of the top five actors in the last 20 years".
Khanna's role in Dhurandhar has particularly resonated with audiences, especially after his dance to the film's Arabic song went viral. Social media is abuzz with appreciation for the actor, with many acknowledging his ability to immerse himself in his characters. One user noted, "He's slipped into a character and never came out till the end. He wasn't just performing, he was the predator incarnate". Another highlighted the spectrum of emotions Khanna portrayed, from "his love for his children and wife to his vengeful killings," praising his performance as a "smooth operator".
Adding to the accolades, trade analyst Komal Nahta pointed out that Akshaye Khanna should capitalize on his current success by signing more films. "It's all about getting that right role," Nahta stated, emphasizing the importance of Khanna continuing to showcase his talent.
Khanna's comeback is also seen as a positive sign for the industry, with many expressing their desire to see more of him on screen. This year, his performance in Chhaava also garnered widespread admiration, further solidifying his position as a versatile and engaging actor.
Akshaye Khanna's career has had its ups and downs. Priyadarshan is not surprised by the renewed admiration for Akshaye Khanna. Priyadarshan was unaware of the online buzz around Khanna’s character Jeetu from Hungama (2003).
The renewed appreciation for Akshaye Khanna coincides with similar recognition for Bobby Deol, who has also experienced a career resurgence. Deol's role in Animal reignited his career, earning him the moniker "Lord Bobby" among his fans. The parallel comebacks of Khanna and Deol highlight the industry's evolving landscape, where talent and audience connection are increasingly valued over conventional metrics of success.
