Govind Namdev Opens Up on Bollywood’s ‘Food Hierarchy’, Says Akshay Kumar Changed the Culture on Oh My God! Sets

| Published: Tuesday, February 24, 2026, 10:28 [IST]

Veteran actor Govind Namdev has sparked a fresh conversation about inequality in Bollywood. In a candid interview, the seasoned performer spoke about the unspoken hierarchy that operates on film sets – from salary gaps and vanity vans to something as basic as food. However, amid his revelations, Namdev singled out Akshay Kumar as a rare superstar who broke the pattern and ensured equality during the shoot of Oh My God!.

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Bollywood’s Unspoken Hierarchy on Film Sets

With a career spanning over three decades and nearly 100 films, Govind Namdev has witnessed the industry’s inner workings firsthand. According to him, hierarchy in Bollywood is deeply ingrained. The system, he says, doesn’t just reflect in paychecks but also in everyday treatment. Bigger stars are given larger vanity vans, premium facilities, and preferential arrangements – all determined by market value rather than experience.

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‘Stars Don’t Seek Advice’: Govind on Industry Culture

During his interaction with The Lallantop, Namdev addressed whether leading actors approach him for guidance. He dismissed the idea, explaining that the industry rarely encourages such creative exchanges. He suggested that many stars hesitate to seek advice from character actors out of fear that it might make them appear less authoritative. According to him, professional boundaries are often shaped by status rather than collaboration.

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The Reality of ‘Food Segregation’ on Sets

One of the most striking revelations was about what Namdev described as “food hierarchy.” He shared that on many film sets, meals are arranged differently for lead actors and the rest of the cast and crew. While top-billed stars often receive exclusive menus, others are served standard catering. The veteran actor indicated that this silent divide mirrors the larger class system functioning within the industry.

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How Akshay Kumar Broke the Pattern During OMG

While speaking about inequality, Govind Namdev also recalled a contrasting experience on the sets of OMG – Oh My God! (2012). He revealed that Akshay Kumar, along with director Umesh Shukla, made a conscious decision to ensure that everyone – from lead actors to crew members – ate the same food. Except for specific dietary restrictions, there was no separate arrangement. Namdev described the atmosphere as refreshingly inclusive, adding that such gestures foster unity and mutual respect on set.

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Praise for Akshay’s Discipline and Positive Attitude

Namdev didn’t just appreciate Akshay Kumar’s approach to equality; he also praised his professionalism. He described Akshay as one of the most disciplined actors in the industry – someone who remains calm, cheerful, and focused regardless of box office ups and downs. According to him, Akshay’s consistency and humility set him apart in an industry often defined by attitude and hierarchy.

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Shah Rukh Khan’s Relentless Work Ethic

In the same conversation, Govind Namdev also spoke highly of Shah Rukh Khan, recalling their time working together. He admired SRK’s unmatched dedication, revealing how the superstar manages with minimal sleep while balancing workouts, rehearsals, public appearances, and performances. Namdev expressed amazement at Shah Rukh’s stamina and commitment, calling it a learning experience even for senior actors.

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A Veteran Who Continues to Speak His Mind

Even after decades in cinema, Govind Namdev remains vocal about the realities of the industry. Known for memorable performances in films like Bandit Queen, Sarfarosh, Satya, Virasat, and OMG, he continues to take on diverse roles. His recent film Gandhi Talks (2026) further proves that his journey is far from over. More importantly, his candid remarks highlight conversations that Bollywood often avoids publicly.

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