In a recent interview, actor Akshay Oberoi opened up about his experiences in the film industry, including a project that never saw the light of day: Karan Johar's ambitious historical drama, Takht. Oberoi revealed that he was, at one point, cast in the film, and the subsequent shelving of the project had a significant emotional impact on him.
Takht, announced with much fanfare in 2018, was envisioned as a Mughal-era epic, boasting a star-studded cast including Ranveer Singh, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Alia Bhatt, Anil Kapoor, Vicky Kaushal, and Janhvi Kapoor. The film was set to explore the complex relationships and power struggles within the Mughal dynasty, specifically focusing on the rivalry between Aurangzeb and Dara Shikoh. Karan Johar was to direct this grand spectacle, marking a departure from his usual romantic and family dramas.
Akshay Oberoi, known for his roles in films like Gurgaon, High, and Flesh, was also slated to be a part of this ensemble. While he didn't divulge specifics about his role, the actor conveyed his excitement and anticipation for the project. He described the feeling of being cast in Takht as a major milestone in his career, an opportunity to work with some of the biggest names in Bollywood and be a part of a large-scale historical drama helmed by a prominent director.
However, Takht faced numerous hurdles, and eventually, the project was indefinitely put on hold. While there were various speculations about the reasons behind this decision, including budgetary concerns and the pandemic, the official word from Dharma Productions remained ambiguous.
For Akshay Oberoi, the shelving of Takht was a deeply disappointing experience. He confessed that it "crushed his soul" when the film was shelved. The emotional investment he had made in the project, the anticipation of working with the cast and crew, and the excitement of playing a part in such a grand film all contributed to his disappointment. He candidly admitted that dealing with the uncertainty and eventual cancellation was difficult.
Despite the setback, Oberoi emphasized that he understands the unpredictable nature of the film industry. Projects get delayed, altered, or sometimes even cancelled for various reasons, many of which are beyond an actor's control. He acknowledged that while it was disheartening, it's crucial to accept these realities and move forward.
Oberoi has since focused on other projects, continuing to build his career with diverse roles across different platforms. He has starred in several web series and films, showcasing his versatility and talent. While the disappointment of Takht remains, it hasn't deterred his passion for acting or his pursuit of challenging and meaningful roles.
The story of Takht serves as a reminder of the volatile nature of the entertainment industry, where even the most ambitious projects can face unexpected challenges. For actors like Akshay Oberoi, it highlights the importance of resilience and the ability to navigate the inevitable ups and downs of their careers. While Takht may remain an unrealized dream, Oberoi's journey continues with new opportunities and the unwavering pursuit of his craft.