In a recent interview with Indian media, Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar revealed the crucial reason for changing his name during the shooting of his first film "Aaj", stating that his name was Rajiv Bhatia, but he decided to adopt the name Akshay Kumar, inspired by the film's hero.

During the shooting, Akshay was inspired by the film's hero, Kumar Gaurav, whose character was named Akshay, feeling it suited him better.

The Housefull actor noted that very few people are aware that his original name is Rajiv.

Akshay further explained that Rajiv is a respectable name and he believes it might have been given to him in honour of Rajiv Gandhi.

Further revealing, the actor mentioned that when his father learned about the name change, he questioned the decision. In response, Akshay explained that he wanted to keep the name Akshay because it was the name of the hero in his debut film.