“Couldn’t Grow It Naturally”: Akshay Kumar Finally Reacts to Samrat Prithviraj Moustache Controversy

Addressing the criticism surrounding Samrat Prithviraj, Akshay Kumar clarified that he couldn’t grow the required moustache naturally, which led to the use of a fake one in the film.

Back in 2022, Akshay Kumar found himself at the centre of a debate after appearing with a fake moustache in the historical drama Samrat Prithviraj. The choice drew criticism from a section of viewers, with many questioning the authenticity of the look. Now, the actor has finally addressed the backlash, shedding light on the real reason behind opting for it.

Akshay Kumar Responds to Criticism

Four years later, Akshay addressed the issue during a podcast on Shubhankar Mishra’s YouTube channel. The actor clarified that the decision was not due to any reluctance to grow facial hair.

During the conversation, when asked about fans feeling he should devote more time to his projects, the topic of the fake moustache in Samrat Prithviraj was brought up.

Akshay said:
“See, I’m working on lots of things, lots of films and lots of looks. Like right now, I have this beard. I took around six weeks to grow it, and during those six weeks, I didn’t work. So it’s not like that.”

He further explained:
“In Samrat Prithviraj, the story required a particular kind of moustache, and that kind of moustache cannot grow naturally on my face. So yes, maybe the fake moustache didn’t look good, maybe a lot of people didn’t like it. But at the end of the day, it’s acting. Growing that exact moustache might not be possible for me. But sometimes you have to do it. And if people didn’t like it, then I am sorry.”

About the Film

Samrat Prithviraj, directed by Chandraprakash Dwivedi and produced by Yash Raj Films, was released in theatres on June 3, 2022.

The film, reportedly made on a budget of ₹175 crore, earned around ₹90 crore worldwide at the box office. It also starred Manushi Chhillar, Sanjay Dutt, and Sonu Sood.

The historical drama was based on the life of legendary warrior Prithviraj Chauhan.

Akshay Kumar’s Recent Projects

On the work front, Akshay Kumar is currently receiving praise for his performance in Bhooth Bangla, directed by Priyadarshan. The horror-comedy also features Paresh Rawal, Tabu, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Rajpal Yadav in key roles.

The film opened to mixed reviews but has generated excitement among fans, especially due to the reunion of Akshay and Priyadarshan. It collected over ₹15 crore on its opening day and continues to perform steadily at the box office.

Next, Akshay will be seen in Welcome To The Jungle, directed by Ahmed Khan. The film boasts a massive ensemble cast including Jackie Shroff, Raveena Tandon, Disha Patani, Jacqueline Fernandez, Arshad Warsi, Johnny Lever, Lara Dutta, Shreyas Talpade, Tusshar Kapoor, Daler Mehndi, Farida Jalal, Krushna Abhishek, and Kiku Sharda, among others. The film is slated for release later this year.

He also has Haiwaan, co-starring Saif Ali Khan and directed by Priyadarshan, in the pipeline.