In the glamorous yet unforgiving world of Bollywood, it’s not uncommon for actors to experience the dizzying highs and harrowing lows that come with fame. Vivek Oberoi, an actor who’s seen his fair share of both, recently recounted a period in his career that was marked by professional ostracism and personal despair. In a candid revelation, Oberoi shared the compassionate gesture extended by none other than Akshay Kumar—an act that reignited Oberoi’s passion for acting and gave him renewed hope.
When Vivek Oberoi burst onto the Bollywood scene with standout performances in films such as ‘Saathiya’ and ‘Company’, few could have predicted the tumult that lay ahead. Despite his clear talent and early success, Oberoi faced a significant setback due to reasons tinted with the politics of the industry. At a time when he felt increasingly isolated—boycotted even—by certain factions within Bollywood, it was Akshay Kumar who stepped in with a lifeline.
Recalling a low point, Oberoi spoke about reaching out to Kumar, who responded with immediate support. Arriving at Oberoi’s house within half an hour of their conversation, Kumar brought with him not just his presence but also a practical way forward. Instead of merely sympathizing or rallying against the perceived injustices, Kumar offered to redirect performance enquiries to Oberoi, thereby providing him with a platform to engage with his audience and regain his footing in the entertainment world.
This gesture, simple yet profound in its solidarity, had a noticeable impact on Oberoi’s psyche. The film industry, with its razzle-dazzle and fiercely competitive nature, often sees such acts of kindness sidestepped for personal gain. However, Kumar’s altruism enabled Oberoi to travel, perform, and connect with fans globally, bringing back into his life the joy and affection that had felt so distant.
Vivek Oberoi’s narrative goes beyond his relationship with Akshay Kumar. He also painted a picture of his professional interaction with ‘Krrish 3’ co-star Hrithik Roshan, fondly speaking of Roshan’s perfectionism and sheer dedication to his craft. Their camaraderie during the film’s shoot showcased the side of Roshan that goes unnoticed by the public—the hours of preparation, commitment to each scene, and his helpful approach to his co-actors.
Additionally, Oberoi expressed his admiration for Shah Rukh Khan. Having been a fan since his college days, Oberoi cherished the warmth and guidance provided by Khan, who, despite his status as a megastar, remained grounded and approachable. Oberoi recounted instances of Khan’s down-to-earth nature, such as his willingness to sit on the floor with children and parents during a gathering for his son AbRam, reflecting on the superstar’s relaxed demeanor.
Vivek Oberoi’s experiences offer a window into the dynamics of Bollywood relationships. They underline the importance of support and kindness within an industry that can often be perceived as heartless. The acts of kindness from figures like Akshay Kumar can turn the tides for someone struggling, and Oberoi’s story underscores the power of mentorship and solidarity that breathes life into careers and creates enduring bonds.
As the industry evolves, tales like these remind us that amidst the cutthroat competition and the dazzling limelight, there’s still room for genuine human connections that go beyond the big screen. Kumar, Roshan, and Khan’s gestures towards Oberoi emphasize that beyond their celebrity personas, they’re individuals capable of profound empathy and camaraderie. In turn, Vivek Oberoi’s candid recall of these interactions serves as a testament to the ethos that sometimes, the real heroes of Bollywood are not just on the reel, but are the ones who help fellow artists find their spark again in the real world.
