It kind of gutted me that my cameo was so short: Akshay Kumar

It’s unheard of. For a top star to play a gay character in a big- budget commercial film. Abhishek Bachchan and John Abraham played gay characters in Dostana, but they were only pretending to be gay in the film. Most gay characters in Hindi films are stereotypes. The men who are too effiminate, they cross-dress, wear make-up, sway their hips and hands. 

You might argue that Fawad Khan played a gay character in Kapoor & Sons, but he is just starting his career and can afford to take chances. For a top actor, known for his macho image, it is a big risk. But Akshay chose to do the role, and he seemed to have enjoyed doing it. As much fun as the audiences watching him are having in the theatres. He is one of the highlights in Dishoom. Here, Akshay Kumar talks about why he chose to do this role, the inspiration behind the look and why he hoped the role was bigger. Read on...

It’s a big deal for a top actor to play a gay character in a big commercial movie. Do you know you just made history?

No. At the point I didn’t! Now that my Bumfie (aka belfie) is well and truly out there. I’ve been hearing that I really might be a first among my generation to do such a role, and you know what, being proud of one’s decisions is what makes your choices infectious… Gay, straight, fat or thin, we are what we are, and I was proud to play a gay character finally in my career. But the incredible response I’ve received from so many people is what makes this so amazing. All I can say is — thanks for the unconditional love.  

Were you not afraid what this could do to your image?

Honestly, I wasn’t afraid even for a second. I was, however, hoping the world would embrace my character. As for my image, I’m fully aware I’ve been a gay icon in India for many years now. If I can be loved by the gay fraternity why shouldn’t I portray one in good faith for all their love and support over the years? I can only hope the gay community is as happy as I am to have done this.  This really could have gone either way, but I’m so glad it’s been accepted by everyone, the world is finally changing for the better!

You, John Abraham and the Dhawan brothers (Rohit and Varun) must have cracked up while doing the scene. Tell me about shooting the scene.

Well, the day I walked onto the sets in Dubai slaying my kilt and man-bun, was the day John Abraham looked at me in a different light. After all we’ve been through, he thought there were no surprises left. Both he and Varun showed me a lot of love, which I happily returned by sitting on their laps and pulling their leg the entire day. We share more than just good times, we even share our sushi. It kind of gutted me that my cameo was so short because I could have hung out with these beefcakes forever!

We love your look in the film so please tell us who was the inspiration behind it?

I am very grateful for the appreciation. The look was inspired by Marc Jacobs, which Rohit and I couldn’t wait to piece together on screen. My stylist literally had a field day creating the outfits as it was a one-of-a-kind look and was sourced from London.