Vinod Suryavanshi Opens Up About Working with Akshay Kumar and Bollywood Beginnings
Vinod Suryavanshi, an actor recognized for his role in Panchayat Season 3 and appearances in Bollywood films like Dream Girl, Thamma, and Jolly LLB 3, recently shared candid insights from his career in an exclusive interview. He delved into his experiences on set with superstar Akshay Kumar and reflected on his humble entry into the film industry.
Memorable Moments with Akshay Kumar on 'Jolly LLB 3' Sets
In a conversation with Siddharth Kannan, Vinod described Akshay Kumar as a warm and engaging co-star. "Working with Akshay in Jolly LLB 3 was fantastic; he is a fun person to work with. We shared many jokes, even during scenes, and he actively involved me by sharing his lines," Vinod recalled. He highlighted Akshay's hardworking nature and unique method for remembering dialogues, noting that while they were cordial, they did not become close friends.
One particularly lighthearted anecdote involved Akshay's craving for homemade food. "My wife initially didn't believe that Akshay Kumar wanted to eat sabudana khichdi from our home, and I understand her skepticism. After repeatedly assuring her, she finally grasped it when I asked her to use less spice and oil. She woke up at 4 am to prepare the dish, and Akshay thoroughly enjoyed it when I brought it to set," Vinod shared, emphasizing the star's down-to-earth demeanor.
He also mentioned playing games like X and O with Akshay and engaging in personal conversations about family, though he noted limited interaction with co-star Arshad Warsi due to differing scene schedules.
Accidental Entry into Bollywood and Harsh Realities for Junior Artists
Vinod's journey into acting began unexpectedly. "I entered the film industry by mistake. A friend offered me a chance to stand in a crowd during a shoot for Rs 500, which included meals. Earning Rs 500 in a day felt better than my previous jobs, so I continued as a junior artist," he explained. Prior to this, he worked as a security guard, earning Rs 8,000 monthly for 12-hour shifts, whereas junior artistry initially brought in Rs 10,000–12,000.
However, he candidly addressed the mistreatment junior artists often endure. "No one speaks properly to junior artists; they face abuse and humiliation from assistant directors, though big actors never demeaned us," Vinod stated. He recounted a painful incident where a senior person snatched his plate during a meal, questioning his presence and forcing him to leave. "That moment hurt deeply and motivated me to pursue acting seriously, hoping it would at least allow me to eat in peace," he added, underscoring the struggles that fueled his determination.
Reflections on Career and Industry Dynamics
Vinod's story highlights the contrasts in Bollywood, from joyful collaborations with stars like Akshay Kumar to the challenging realities for newcomers. His experiences shed light on the importance of respect and perseverance in the entertainment world, offering a raw glimpse into the lives of those behind the scenes.
