In a recent revelation that highlights the remarkable consistency of one of Bollywood's most disciplined stars, veteran actress Tabu has shared insights into Akshay Kumar's unwavering daily routine that has remained unchanged for over two decades. The actress, who is reuniting with Kumar after 25 years, emphasized that his commitment to early mornings and avoidance of social gatherings continue to define his professional approach.
The Unchanged Discipline After 25 Years
Tabu and Akshay Kumar first appeared together as romantic leads in the 1996 film Tu Chor Main Sipahi, which achieved considerable success at the box office. Despite their on-screen chemistry, the pair weren't paired together again until now, making their upcoming collaboration in Bhoot Bangla particularly significant for fans who have waited a quarter century to see them share screen space again.
Reflecting on their renewed professional partnership, Tabu noted that while both actors have matured over the years, Kumar's fundamental characteristics remain intact. "His humour and energy are the same," she observed, before delving into the more structured aspects of his personality that have impressed her most.
Akshay Kumar's Two Golden Rules
According to Tabu, Kumar operates by two fundamental principles that have guided his career for 25 years. "He still wakes up at 4 am, finishes early, and heads home, which is a very good thing for the rest of us," she revealed. The actress emphasized that this early start benefits the entire production team by setting a productive tone for the day.
The second rule involves Kumar's deliberate avoidance of the party circuit that often characterizes Bollywood social life. "He always says, 'jaldi sona chahiye,' and reminds everyone that he doesn't go to parties. That part of him hasn't changed at all," Tabu shared, highlighting how the actor prioritizes rest and routine over social engagements.
The Science Behind Kumar's 8-Hour Work Philosophy
Kumar had previously explained his approach to work hours in an interview with Galatta, where he detailed why he strictly adheres to eight-hour shifts. "I work eight hours a day. I personally feel that you are in front of a camera, and it captures each and every pore, each and every emotion. After 8 hours, the body gets tired," he stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peak performance during filming.
The actor provided a mathematical breakdown of his daily schedule that justifies his time management strategy: "There are 24 hours. You need eight hours of sleep. I lead a very disciplined life. Your body requires eight hours of sleep. You need two hours to eat. You need two hours of workout. You need a few hours to spend with your family. So how much is actually left?"
Kumar's morning routine begins between 4 am and 4:30 am, with bedtime scheduled for 9 pm to 9:30 pm. He particularly values the early morning hours when his family is still asleep, describing this as essential personal time. "Every man needs 2-3 hours. I would tell all of you to have 2-3 hours where you are alone with yourself. That is the best time when nobody is bothering you," he advised, noting that this period is strictly device-free with "No phone, No Instagram."
Bhoot Bangla: A Long-Awaited Reunion
The upcoming horror film Bhoot Bangla, directed by Priyadarshan, marks not only the return of the Tabu-Akshay pairing but also reunites the director with both actors. Tabu and Priyadarshan last collaborated on the 2000 classic Hera Pheri, though in that film she didn't play Kumar's love interest.
Tabu expressed enthusiasm about working with Priyadarshan again, noting "I had stayed in touch with Priyan, so I knew he would be exactly the same person." She described the director as remaining an "impatient, one-take director who is vocal about every emotion he feels," suggesting that some creative personalities in the industry maintain their distinctive approaches over time.
This collaboration represents a significant moment for Bollywood enthusiasts who remember the actors' first pairing in 1996 and have witnessed Kumar's rise to become one of the industry's most prolific and disciplined stars. His adherence to a strict routine has undoubtedly contributed to his reputation as one of Indian cinema's most reliable and productive actors, with Tabu's recent comments serving as testament to the power of consistency in an industry known for its unpredictability.