Today Akshay Kumar completes 20 years in the world of films as a leading man. It was way back on 23rd August 1991 that Akshay's first film as a solo hero, 'Dancer', had released. Though he won't quite be enjoying a new release this year around the same time to celebrate his 'bees saal' in the industry, Akshay would be closing the year with 'Desi Boyz' arriving this November.

"First film which Akshay had signed was 'Deedar' opposite Karisma Kapoor. However the one which got released first was 'Dancer'. In the film he had a newbie named Mohini opposite him and though the film didn't make much waves, Akshay was noticed," says a film historian who also reveals that before 'Dancer', Akshay also had a part to play in the multistarrer 'Saugandh' which had released in the same year.

It is a different matter though that the real recognition came his way only a year later once 'Khiladi' (1992) turned into a huge success. Nevertheless, it has indeed turned out to be a long journey for Akshay from 'Deedar' to now 'Desi Boyz', what with 100 odd movies done by the actor in the interim.

On contacted, Akshay said, "I have made sure that I have loved every moment in every film, through all its humble highs and lousy lows. Of course it has been a career to die for."

Cheers to that!