Actor Akshay Oberoi is set for an interesting new chapter in his career, with several films and web projects lined up. In an exclusive chat the actor opened up about his journey on Toxic: A Fairy Tale For Grown-ups, revealing how working with Yash and Geetu Mohandas pushed him to think beyond his perceived limitations. He also spoke about his upcoming collaboration with Neeraj Pandey and Manoj Bajpayee, his suspense drama Love Lottery, and Aashram Season 4.
Q: Now that Toxic has released, how would you describe your experience of being part of the film?
Akshay Oberoi: Toxic holds a very special place in my heart because of everything it has taught me about my own journey. It made me realise the importance of thinking bigger and allowing yourself to dream without being held back by fear or self-imposed limitations. Working with Boss and Geetu showed me that there really are no boundaries and that you have to aim as high as possible, regardless of the obstacles.
The lessons I took away from making this film will stay with me for the rest of my life. Even years from now, when I look back at Toxic, I know I will remember it as much more than just a movie. It was an experience that felt like an entire lifetime and completely changed the way I look at my career.
Q: Your upcoming lineup includes Neeraj Pandey’s next, alongside Manoj Bajpayee. What convinced you to take up the project?
Akshay Oberoi: The names themselves were a huge reason. I have been a massive admirer of Neeraj Pandey and consider him one of my favourite filmmakers. I have wanted to collaborate with him for a very long time.
And Manoj ji has been a major inspiration throughout my career. Of course, he is an inspiration for countless actors, but for me, his work had a particularly strong influence on the way I approached my own career. Today, he is also a very close friend, so it is still surreal to think that someone I admired for years is now someone I have had the chance to work with and spend time around. Getting to collaborate with him was an incredible experience.
Q: You also have Love Lottery coming up. The film appears to be a suspense drama. How different is this character from the roles you’ve recently played?
Akshay Oberoi: It is very different. As the poster says, he is “a man framed by love.” The film explores the idea of male rights at a time when women’s empowerment rightly remains extremely important, especially considering the injustices women have faced.
At the same time, the story believes that while empowering women, society should not overlook men either. There needs to be a sense of balance. For me, a film should always be entertaining first, and if it can communicate a meaningful message along the way, that makes it even better.
That is what attracted me to Love Lottery. The script immediately made me want to be part of it, while the vulnerability and humanity of the character were equally compelling. As an actor, you naturally gravitate towards characters that have multiple layers, shades, and complexities.
Q: You are also set to begin Aashram Season 4. With the show being hugely popular, can you give fans any hints about the new season?
Akshay Oberoi: No, I really can’t reveal anything because the show has such a massive following. But I am extremely excited to work with Bobby sir again. More importantly, I am thrilled to collaborate with one of my favourite filmmakers, Prakash ji.
Working with him has been something I have wanted to do for years, so I am genuinely grateful that he has given me this opportunity. I am really looking forward to being part of the next season.
