Akshay Kumar welcomes Ganesha home

Today is a special day for Akshay Kumar. The actor is bringing Lord Ganesha home for the first time and is maha-excited about it.  “Ganpati Bappa holds a special place in our (wife Twinkle and son Aarav) hearts. There’s so much to thank him for, and I've wanted to do this for a long time,” shares the actor exclusively to After Hrs as he steps out of his car with Ganesha in hand. “He's always been a part of my journey —keeping me safe during my highs and airlifting me through my lows,” he adds.

Recalling his early memories of celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi, Akshay says, “The festival was a fun event that we kids looked forward to. I remember eating modaks, joining the processions during visarjan and dancing to the dhol beats.” The festival means much more today, says the actor. “It’s a time to renew and celebrate our faith in Him. Without his blessings you can’t reach anywhere, no matter how hard you work,” says Akshay.

So do you credit your success to Him? “Yes, I think I am truly blessed. That’s because I am able to help out so many people in so many ways. That’s real success for me.”

A staunch Mata ka bhakt as well, he reveals that apart from chanting the Gayatri mantra and saying a silent prayer to the Goddess, he also prays to Ganpati before performing any stunt. “It’s good to have the reassurance that someone up there is taking good care of you,” smiles the action king.

With an interesting line-up of films and a TV show, Akshay feels that the year has been good for him. “He has already given  me so much that I can’t thank Him enough. But what I do wish for is a lot of peace, prosperity and happiness for everyone,” says the actor before signing off with a ‘Ganpati Bappa Morya’ chant!