The spy action thriller 'Dhurandhar' has proven to be a massive box office winner in 2025, captivating audiences with its intense story and powerful acting. A significant part of the conversation around the film's success centers on actor Akshaye Khanna and his compelling portrayal of the character Rehman Daikat. This role marks another high point in a remarkable career resurgence for the actor, who had once stepped away from the industry's glare.
The Vanishing Act: Akshaye Khanna's Candid Confession
Once a leading Bollywood star, Akshaye Khanna largely disappeared from public view for a period. The actor has been transparent about this phase, attributing it to personal challenges. In a revealing 2017 interview with The Indian Express, he stated that personal issues over two to three years prevented him from working.
He emphasized that acting is his life's work, having started at age 19, and that being unable to pursue it was a deeply difficult experience. "It was torture to not be able to work, and there was no getting away from the depression it brings," Khanna admitted. This period gave him a profound appreciation for the opportunity to be an actor and the fickle nature of audience preference, which welcomes only a handful of new faces annually.
Strategic Return: Rebuilding a Filmography
Khanna's return to cinema was carefully plotted with roles designed to rebuild his standing. He made his comeback with the films 'Dishoom' and 'Mom', the latter featuring the legendary Sridevi. He continued this momentum with a key part in the 2019 political drama 'The Accidental Prime Minister'.
His performance in the legal drama 'Section 375' was particularly notable, earning him a nomination for the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actor. He later joined the hit sequel 'Drishyam 2', playing a police officer in what became a major commercial success. After another two-year break, he took on the historical role of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 'Chhaava', starring opposite Vicky Kaushal.
'Dhurandhar': A Box Office Juggernaut
The latest milestone in his career is the 2025 film 'Dhurandhar'. Directed by Aditya Dhar, the movie boasts a stellar ensemble cast including Ranveer Singh, R. Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, and Sara Arjun, with Akshaye Khanna in a pivotal role.
The film's financial performance has been staggering. According to industry tracker Sacnilk, 'Dhurandhar' has collected an impressive Rs 588 crore globally and is swiftly approaching the coveted Rs 600 crore club, cementing its status as one of the year's biggest hits.
Akshaye Khanna's journey from a self-imposed hiatus to becoming a talking point in a blockbuster film is a testament to his talent and perseverance. His role in 'Dhurandhar' is not just a performance but a symbol of a seasoned actor reclaiming his rightful place in the cinematic sun.
