Did Akshay Kumar Really Chop John Abraham’s scenes in “Garam Masala”?

Over the years, Garam Masala, the 2005 comedy film featuring Akshay Kumar and John Abraham, has grown into a cult favourite among Bollywood fans. Directed by the acclaimed Priyadarshan, who is known for delivering a string of successful comedies such as Hera Pheri, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, and De Dana Dan, the film holds a special place in the genre of light-hearted cinema.

However, at the time of its release, the film was not without controversy. Whispers in the industry suggested that Akshay Kumar had allegedly cut down John Abraham scenes to tilt the film in his own favour. The rumour hinted at internal politics and manipulation behind the scenes.

Director Priyadarshan firmly dismissed these claims. “Am I an idiot to let one of my actors make my film for me? This is nothing but a figment of a troublesome journalist’s imagination. It may be some people’s idea of publicity, not mine. I’ve been around for too long to let actors dictate to me,” he said, defending both his creative authority and the integrity of the cast.

He further questioned the source of the gossip, noting that the actors themselves had no issues with one another. “Akshay never showed the slightest inclination to invade John’s territory. In fact, I’ve been in touch with John. Not once has he expressed any grievance against Akshay. So who are these people spreading these rumours?” the filmmaker remarked in an interview with Rediff in 2005.

In hindsight, the film’s enduring popularity speaks louder than any past speculation, reaffirming the collaborative spirit that brought Garam Masala to life.