'They are as much Indian as I am': Akshay Kumar slams racism against Northeast Indians on national TV

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar has taken the reins as host of Wheel of Fortune India on TV. In one of the latest episodes, he seized the moment to spotlight a pressing issue, converting the fun-filled show into a platform for vital social dialogue. The actor confronted the long-standing racism that North-Eastern Indians have suffered from their fellow citizens.A contestant recounted her encounter with racial abuse targeting Northeast Indians. It might have been brushed off as merely an "uncomfortable moment." Akshay Kumar stepped up instead and validated her words and declared his stance firmly. Far from keeping his distance, he personalized the moment by inviting his Manipur-based makeup artist, Kin, onto the stage. He said, “There is a boy with me who does my makeup and takes care of me. He is here—Kin.” As Kin shared stories of being ridiculed, stereotyped, and targeted with terms like “Chinese,” “Chinky,” and “Momo,” the problem became vividly real. It happened live in front of millions. Akshay didn't water it down with false courtesy or dismissal. “Today, after listening to you, I am convinced that these things happen,” he stated. From the show, he spoke to the entire nation: “I want to tell all the people of India- there is discrimination against people from the Northeast. They are all Indians. They are as much Indians as I am, as you are, and as everyone sitting here.”The 'Khiladi' actor also highlighted the Northeast's key contributions, like the Naga Regiment's sacrifices in conflicts including Kargil and Bangladesh. “They have given their blood. They are Indians.”On the professional front, Akshay Kumar is set to star in Priyadarshan's upcoming horror-comedy ‘Bhooth Bangla’. He will also lead in ‘Welcome to the Jungle’ and ‘Haiwaan’.