Akshay Kumar Responds to Age-Gap Debate with Wamiqa Gabbi in Bhooth Bangla

The ongoing debate around age differences between lead actors in Hindi cinema has resurfaced with Akshay Kumar’s upcoming film Bhooth Bangla, where the 58-year-old star is paired opposite 32-year-old Wamiqa Gabbi. Addressing the conversation, Kumar questioned why such casting choices continue to draw scrutiny.

In a recent interview, the actor responded candidly:
“Toh kya hai? Humne pehle dekha nahi hai kya kabhi? It happens in Hollywood as well. Sometimes, it’s the requirement of the script. (In real life too), so many people get married to partners older or younger than them.”

Debate Rekindled by Recent Casting Choices

The discussion around age-gap romances has gained traction in recent months, particularly after instances like 20-year-old Sara Arjun being cast opposite 40-year-old Ranveer Singh in Dhurandhar, and Rashmika Mandanna portraying the wife of 60-year-old Salman Khan in Sikandar.

Kumar’s remarks place him among several industry voices who view such pairings as a long-standing norm shaped by storytelling trends and audience acceptance.

Priyadarshan on ‘Screen Age’ vs Real Age

Director Priyadarshan also weighed in, emphasizing that an actor’s perceived age on screen often differs from their real age.

“There’s a big difference between chronological age and screen age. An actor’s screen age may not be his real age, but people accept you for your screen age too. I don’t see any issue there,” he said.

He added that casting decisions are guided more by how actors appear together on screen rather than their actual age difference. “When I shoot, I may look at a pair and feel like it isn’t the right pair—and that may have nothing to do with their age gap.”

Akshay Kumar Praises Wamiqa Gabbi’s Work Ethic

Beyond the debate, Kumar spoke positively about his co-star Wamiqa Gabbi, highlighting her disciplined approach to acting.

“I first met Wamiqa when we were shooting for Bhooth Bangla. She works very differently. She keeps reading her scenes and rehearsing for them. She gets very serious,” he said.

He also compared her style with co-stars like Tabu—whom he described as even more serious—and Vidya Balan, who he noted prefers a more instinctive, “free actor” approach.

About Bhooth Bangla

Bhooth Bangla, directed by Priyadarshan, marks his reunion with Akshay Kumar after 14 years following Khatta Meetha (2010). The horror-comedy features an ensemble cast including Paresh Rawal, Rajpal Yadav, Tabu, and the late Asrani.

The film is set to release in theatres on April 10 and has been described as a family-friendly entertainer, distinct in tone from recent box office hits like Dhurandhar.