Producer Ekta Kapoor has penned a heartfelt tribute to her father Jeetendra and superstar Akshay Kumar, crediting their unwavering discipline and producer-friendly approach for keeping Bollywood’s commercial engine running strong.
Sharing nostalgic photos of Jeetendra and Akshay in matching cream traditional outfits engaged in animated conversation, alongside a picture of herself with Akshay, Ekta wrote on Instagram: “This picture of Dad and Akshay Sir reminds me exactly of what discipline can do. They are so similar that every time I talk to Akshay Sir, I feel like I’m talking to my Dad.” She highlighted their “deep trust and respect” for producers’ vision, calling them “the reason the commerce of our industry is alive.”
Ekta emphasized volume over sporadic big-star projects: “Doing a few films with top directors once in a while only sustains one layer of the industry… For an industry to thrive, you need actors who work regularly so that every producer gets a chance.” She specifically praised Akshay’s prolific output—”Why does Akshay Kumar do four films a year?”—as essential job creation, thanking him for giving “every producer, from the top to the mid-sized, a chance to put their best foot forward.”
The praise arrives amid buzz for Ekta’s upcoming horror-comedy Bhooth Bangla, reuniting Akshay with Priyadarshan after 14 years. Ekta revealed Akshay instantly agreed when she pitched Priyadarshan’s involvement, calling their creative synergy “soulmates.” The film’s vintage Priyadarshan-Akshay flavor positions it as family entertainment post-action-heavy releases like Dhurandhar 2.
Ekta grouped Akshay with “the Dharmendras, the Jeetendras,” icons whose consistent output sustained producers across decades. Jeetendra delivered 200+ films with his 5:30 AM gym routine and alcohol-free discipline, while Akshay maintains a 4-film annual pace through Hera Pheri, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, and Kesari hits. Their approach contrasts today’s selective superstar calendars, ensuring mid-budget filmmakers survive.
Fan applauded with acknowledgment: “Truth! Akshay carries Bollywood on his back,” alongside “Jeetendra ji’s work ethic unmatched.” Ekta’s note underscores why Balaji Telefilms thrives—backing reliable stars over erratic talent. As Bhooth Bangla nears, her tribute reminds Bollywood’s backbone lies in disciplined volume players who prioritize cinema’s business over personal stardom.