Akshay Kumar is celebrating his 59th birthday today, on September 9, 2026. The actor has completed more than three decades in Hindi cinema. His career has covered action, comedy, romance, drama and socially relevant films. However, one of the earliest moments in his journey remains particularly special. Akshay Kumar first faced the camera when he was 23. He made his Hindi film debut a year later with ‘Saugandh’.Over the years, the actor has often looked back at his early days. One such memory came through a throwback photograph from his first photoshoot.
Akshay Kumar first faced the camera at 23
Long before becoming a leading Bollywood star, Akshay Kumar was a 23-year-old aspiring actor appearing in front of the camera for the first time. The actor later shared a glimpse of that period with his followers. He posted a photograph from his first-ever photoshoot last year.The image featured a much younger Akshay Kumar. He could be seen looking away from the camera with one hand positioned near his face. He wore a white and blue shirt in the picture.
Akshay Kumar says it became his “first love”
While sharing the throwback image last year, Akshay Kumar reflected on what that first experience eventually meant to him. The actor described his first time in front of the camera as a particularly memorable moment. He also credited the love of his audience for helping turn that experience into a lifelong passion.”Your firsts are always special. And so is this photo, taken when I was 23…my first time in front of the camera and before I could realise, it soon became my first love, all thanks to your love. #ThrowbackThursday,”
‘Saugandh’ marked Akshay Kumar’s film debut
Akshay Kumar made his Hindi film debut with ‘Saugandh’ in 1991. He was 24 when the film arrived in theatres. Although the film marked his entry into the industry, his career received a major boost with his next release.’Khiladi’ arrived in 1992 and became an important turning point for Akshay Kumar. The film brought him commercial recognition and helped establish his popular “Khiladi Kumar” identity. The success also paved the way for several action-oriented roles during the 1990s.
Akshay Kumar established himself as an action star
Following ‘Khiladi’, Akshay Kumar became closely associated with action films. His early career included movies such as ‘Mohra’ in 1994 and ‘Jaanwar’ in 1999. The ‘Khiladi’ franchise also became a major part of his identity. However, the actor eventually expanded his repertoire and moved into different genres.Akshay Kumar found popularity with romantic films as well. His filmography included ‘Dhadkan’ in 2000 and ‘Andaaz’ in 2003. He later continued exploring comedy, drama and socially relevant subjects. ‘Namastey London’ was another notable film in his romantic phase.
Akshay Kumar’s next film is ‘Haiwaan’
As he turns 59, Akshay Kumar continues to take on varied roles. His upcoming project is Priyadarshan’s ‘Haiwaan’. The thriller also stars Saif Ali Khan. Akshay Kumar is set to portray a darker character in the film. The movie is the remake of Mohanlal starrer ‘Oppam’.