EXCLUSIVE: Firoz A. Nadiadwallah hails Akshay Kumar: “In terms of talent, personality, looks, he’s far ahead of Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio put together….Read More

The iconic film Hera Pheri (2000) will complete 25 years this month, on March 31. On this joyous occasion, its producer Firoz A. Nadiadwallah spoke exclusively with Bollywood Hungama about the film, went down memory lane and also spoke highly of its lead actor, Akshay Kumar and how he’s a powerhouse of talent.

Firoz A. Nadiadwallah said, “Akshay ji is one star in which we have the whole galaxy and universe together. Aap unse comedy karao, action karao, romance karao, emotions karao – he can do it anything. I keep telling him that Tom Cruise is the Akshay Kumar of Hollywood, not the other way around! In fact, according to my humble submission, in terms of talent, personality and looks, he’s far ahead of Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio put together.”

Firoz continued, “He can be a romantic hero for a minimum of 10 years. Abhi bhi unke chehre pe kya glow hai. He takes care of his health and is always punctual. His level of commitment and respect for everybody on the set are commendable. I have been watching him since 1996. Lahoo Ke Do Rang (1997) was my first film with him.”

Firoz A. Nadiadwallah and Akshay Kumar have previously worked together in as many as 7 films – Lahoo Ke Do Rang, Hera Pheri, Awara Paagal Deewana (2002), Aan: Men At Work (2004), Deewane Huye Paagal (2005), Phir Hera Pheri (2006) and Welcome (2007). Both are currently gearing up for Welcome To The Jungle and are expected to start work on Hera Pheri 3 soon.

Firoz A. Nadiadwallah also said, “You must have heard the saying ‘One in a million’. For me, Akshay ji is a million in one! God bless him (smiles).”

He also spoke highly of Paresh Rawal, who also features in the Hera Pheri series in a crucial role. He said, “Paresh ji, meanwhile, is more like an elder brother and then he’s a star for us. My father (A G Nadiadwala) loved him dearly. Even now, he’s as humble as ever.”