Akshay goes underwater for 8x10

Akshay Kumar always pushes the envelope when it comes to action, and for Percept Picture Company's 8X10, the actor pulled out all the stops. Akki went to Bangkok and did a special course to train for the challenging underwater sequence.

The underwater sequence was shot by director Nagesh Kukunoor at a pool in Chembur last week. Managing Director Percept Holdings, Shailender Singh says, "We are very excited about this film. It's a psychological super-thriller and there can't be a better actor to play this role.

Akshay is so committed... we suggested using a stuntman but he ruled it out and insisted on doing the part himself, and the results are amazing." Apparently, such a scene has never been seen before in Hindi cinema. "Akki is playing a super-hero but not with supernatural powers." he clarifies.

The scene is a highly adventurous sequence in deep waters and the actor is tied up in chains. It's a long fight sequence with other co-actors. Before leaving for Bangkok last night, Akshay spoke about the underwater sequence, "It was an amazing experience because I did it myself. You have to be well-prepared for underwater sequences.

If you don't do it properly, it can cause all kinds of health problems. Before I shot for the scene, I made sure that I was well-trained to do it. I underwent a special course in Bangkok for the same. I even have a paddy instructor's certificate, which one only gets after getting trained in underwater swimming."