Misconception that film industry is 'sone ki chidiya': Akshay Kumar

Mumbai: Superstar Akshay Kumar says it is a misconception that the film industry is considered very profitable and wealthy, but that it needs several hits to avoid its current losses.

His patriotic drama "Airlift" has collected Rs.44 crore at the box office in the opening weekend.

"I hope this continues every week because according to me, people have this misconception that the industry is a 'sone ki chidiya' (golden bird)," Akshay said on Monday.

"According to me, this industry is striving on very few hits. I hope the industry receives several hits because this industry has the capability to give you a lot. But at the moment, the industry is going through loss," he said.

Akshay has been one of the consistent performers at the box office over the years, delivering at least 3-4 films a year. While most of his films do well, even the ones which don't live up to expectations recover costs.

Last year, all of his four films -- "Baby", "Brothers", "Gabbar Is Back" and "Singh Is Bling" -- earned close to Rs.100 crore at the box office.

He said it would be great if "Airlift" is declared tax-free but said he wasn't aware of such a development till now.

Also being a producer of the film, he said: "I'm very happy that I got this opportunity of this lovely script that came in my hand, and to produce the film.

"I can't express my happiness. If I could, I would jump with joy that people have loved this film, enjoyed it and appreciated it."

"I would like to thank all people who have appreciated this film, because such films usually reach only a certain point like 40 crore to 60 crore, because such films don't have songs, there's no commerciality or item song and no comedy. And taking this film to this level itself is due to the sensible people."

Akshay will next be seen in "Housefull 3" along with Riteish Deshmukh and Abhishek Bachchan.