Entertainment
‘He Offered Me His Own Shows’: Vivek Oberoi reveals how Akshay Kumar helped him during bollywood boycott after Salman Khan fallout
The actor recalls one phone call that changed everything, saying Akshay Kumar’s practical support helped him rebuild his confidence during one of the darkest phases of his career.
Vivek Oberoi has opened up about one of the most challenging chapters of his Bollywood journey, revealing how Akshay Kumar stood by him when he found himself professionally isolated following his highly publicised fallout with Salman Khan in the early 2000s.
In a recent interview, Vivek described Akshay’s gesture as one of the most meaningful acts of support he has ever received, crediting the superstar with helping him regain confidence when work had almost disappeared.
Career Took a Hit After Early Success
After making a remarkable Bollywood debut with Company (2002), directed by Ram Gopal Varma, Vivek Oberoi was widely regarded as one of the industry’s brightest young talents.
However, his career suffered a major setback in 2003 after his public dispute with Salman Khan. Despite delivering critically appreciated performances and successful films, Vivek said he experienced professional isolation and struggled to secure new projects.
The Phone Call That Changed Everything
Speaking to Mirchi Plus, Vivek recalled receiving an unexpected phone call from Akshay Kumar while he was going through a difficult period.
The actor said Akshay asked where he was, and after learning that Vivek was at home feeling depressed, he arrived at his residence within half an hour.
Instead of making unrealistic promises, Akshay chose to offer practical help.
According to Vivek, Akshay told him that while he could not change what was happening in the industry, he could help him rebuild a positive mindset.
‘Take My Shows Instead’
One gesture, in particular, left Vivek deeply moved.
At the time, Akshay was one of Bollywood’s busiest stars, juggling multiple film shoots and stage performances.
Since he could not attend every live event, he offered Vivek the opportunity to perform in his place.
ALSO READ : Ranbir Kapoor’s Next Big Screen Journey Revealed: From ‘Ramayana’ to ‘Animal Park’… Here’s Why Fans Have Every Reason to Be Excited
Vivek revealed that Akshay even promised to redirect event organisers approaching him for stage shows.
The offer allowed Vivek to reconnect with audiences, perform before cheering fans and regain the confidence he had lost during his difficult phase.
‘It Helped Me Believe Again’
Looking back, Vivek said those stage performances gave him far more than financial support.
The experience reminded him that audiences still appreciated his work, even if opportunities within the industry had become limited.
He admitted that one of his biggest frustrations was watching his films receive appreciation and awards while still struggling to find consistent work.
According to Vivek, Akshay never claimed he would fight industry politics or challenge influential groups. Instead, he chose a practical solution that genuinely helped.
The actor said the simple act of encouragement made a lasting difference in his life.
What’s Next for Vivek Oberoi?
On the professional front, Vivek Oberoi is preparing for one of the biggest roles of his career.
The actor will portray Vibhishana in filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious mythological epic Ramayana: Part 1, which is scheduled for a Diwali 2026 theatrical release.
With a stellar ensemble cast and massive anticipation surrounding the project, the film is expected to mark another significant milestone in Vivek’s acting journey.
