Akshay Kumar added 'Bhojpuri is better than Hollywood' line in Welcome To The Jungle
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Actor Akshay Kumar has revealed that he personally suggested the dialogue 'Bhojpuri is better than Hollywood' be included in the upcoming comedy 'Welcome To The Jungle'. The line is delivered on screen by actress Jacqueline Fernandez, whose character arrives from London and Paris before encountering the vibrant energy of Bhojpuri entertainment.
How the Dialogue Came About
Akshay was asked whether playing a Bhojpuri film star in the movie and performing a Bhojpuri number could help elevate an industry often criticised for objectifying women. In response, he disclosed that the idea for the line originated with him. He explained that Jacqueline's character has 'seen the world' and, upon witnessing the spectacle, energy, and dance of Bhojpuri cinema, concludes it surpasses anything Hollywood offers.
Akshay on the Honour of Playing a Bhojpuri Star
Akshay elaborated on his character's world view: 'Where will you get that Hollywood? And dance like this, dance like Bhojpuri, where will you get it? So, it is anytime better than Hollywood.' He added: 'According to me, Bhojpuri is right up there, and to play a Bhojpuri actor, it was an honour.' The remarks signal a deliberate creative choice to position Bhojpuri cinema favourably within the film's narrative, rather than treating it as comic fodder.
About Welcome To The Jungle
'Welcome To The Jungle' is the third instalment in the blockbuster Welcome franchise. The original 'Welcome' released in 2007, followed by 'Welcome Back' in 2015. The new film features one of Hindi cinema's largest ensemble casts, including Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Jackie Shroff, Raveena Tandon, Disha Patani, Jacqueline Fernandez, Arshad Warsi, Paresh Rawal, Rajpal Yadav, Johnny Lever, Lara Dutta, Shreyas Talpade, Tusshar Kapoor, Daler Mehndi, and Urvashi Rautela, among several others.
Production Details
The film is presented by AA Nadiadwala and Star Studio18, in association with Cape of Good Films and Seeta Films, and is a Base Industries Group and Seeta Films production. With the franchise's track record of ensemble comedy and high-energy set pieces, the inclusion of a Bhojpuri cultural thread adds a fresh dimension that Akshay clearly championed from within the creative process.