Akshay Kumar, one of Bollywood's most prolific and highest-paid actors, has addressed claims about being overly focused on money, clarifying his approach to his career and film choices. Known for his dedication and hard work, Kumar has built a remarkable career spanning over 30 years, appearing in over 150 films and winning numerous awards.

Kumar's financial success is undeniable. Reports indicate that his net worth is around ₹2500 crore, encompassing earnings from films, brand endorsements, and various investments. In 2024, his annual earnings were approximately ₹486 crore, translating to about ₹1.4 crore per day or ₹10,000 every single minute. He typically charges between ₹60 crore and ₹145 crore per film, adjusting his remuneration based on the project. While some reports suggest he sometimes opts for a profit-sharing model instead of a fixed fee, aligning his earnings with a film's box office performance.

In an interview, Kumar revealed that earlier in his career, his focus was primarily on earning money. He aimed to accumulate ₹10 crore in his bank account. However, his priorities have evolved. While he acknowledges being good with money and able to calculate it quickly, he now emphasizes making films that create a positive impact on society. This shift is reflected in his film choices, with Kumar increasingly taking on roles in movies addressing social issues. For instance, he produced "Padman," a film centered around sanitary pads and women's hygiene, highlighting his commitment to shedding light on important social causes.

Kumar's journey to financial success began with a modest first paycheck of ₹5,001 for the film "Deedar". Today, he owns luxurious properties worldwide, including a sea-facing duplex in Mumbai, a Portuguese-style villa in Goa, a beach house in Mauritius, and multiple homes in Toronto, Canada. Besides acting, Kumar has diversified his income streams. In 2023, he launched an athleisure brand, Force IX, showcasing his fitness-forward persona. He also ventured into gaming, introducing FAU-G, an online battle game, and pledged 20% of its profits to the Bharat Ke Veer Trust. Furthermore, he has reportedly sold six properties recently, earning over ₹100 crore.

Despite his success, Kumar has faced criticism, with some suggesting that he has caused losses for the film industry in recent years. Some have also pointed out that he gave up his Indian citizenship for a Canadian one to make more money. Nevertheless, his work ethic remains unparalleled, and he continues to be one of the busiest actors in Bollywood.

In conclusion, while Akshay Kumar's early career was driven by financial goals, his focus has shifted towards making meaningful films that contribute to society. His diverse investments and entrepreneurial ventures demonstrate his financial acumen, but his recent film choices indicate a desire to use his platform for more than just monetary gain.