Akshay Kumar was among the early voters in Mumbai for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, casting his vote on Monday morning. Afterward, he was spotted at the Mumbai airport with his mother-in-law, actor Dimple Kapadia. According to source, the duo was headed to London.
Early Voting and Citizenship
Akshay Kumar exercised his voting rights early on Monday, a significant moment since he acquired Indian citizenship last year. Previously holding Canadian citizenship, Akshay’s return to Indian nationality has been a topic of discussion. Speaking to reporters, he emphasized the importance of voting for a developed and strong India. He expressed his excitement about voting for the first time as an Indian citizen, saying, “This is great! I am feeling very good!”
Airport Sighting with Dimple Kapadia
Later in the day, Akshay was seen at Mumbai airport with Dimple Kapadia. He was still dressed in the green shirt outfit he wore to cast his vote. Dimple, the mother of Akshay’s wife Twinkle Khanna, opted for a black and white look. The pair was reportedly traveling to London.
Akshay’s Journey to Indian Citizenship
In August 2023, Akshay shared his citizenship documents on social media, celebrating his Indian identity on Independence Day. He remarked, “Dil aur citizenship, dono Hindustani (Heart and citizenship, both Indian). Happy Independence Day! Jai Hind.” Akshay explained that although he had Canadian citizenship for many years, his heart and mind have always been Indian. He received his Indian citizenship on August 15, 2023, a coincidence he found deeply meaningful.
The Decision to Obtain Canadian Citizenship
Akshay applied for Canadian citizenship in the 1990s after facing a string of box office failures. A friend in Canada suggested starting a cargo business together, prompting Akshay to move and acquire Canadian citizenship. However, after two of his films became hits, he returned to India. The process of renouncing his Canadian citizenship, initiated in 2019, was delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Despite his Canadian passport, Akshay has always considered himself Indian at heart. He has been a diligent taxpayer in India, stating, “I just pay my taxes, and I am the highest taxpayer.” His decision to vote in the Lok Sabha elections and his pride in his Indian citizenship underscore his commitment to his homeland.