Ajith Kumar, the esteemed Tamil actor, recently shared his heartfelt sentiments on being conferred with the prestigious Padma Bhushan award. In an exclusive interview, the “Good Bad Ugly” star expressed that the honour still feels “surreal and overwhelming.”
Speaking to the media, Ajith conveyed his down-to-earth nature, stating, “Honestly, it still hasn’t sunk in. I’m still a plain middle-class person at heart, and it feels so surreal to be here and experiencing all these emotions. I’m happy and overwhelmed.”
The actor, known for his simplicity and avoidance of titles, emphasized that he sees acting as his profession, for which he is paid. He believes that fame and fortune are byproducts of his work. “I prefer being called Ajith, AK, or whatever. It’s just another job. I’m an actor by profession, and I get paid for my work,” he stated.
Ajith also reflected on the significance of the Padma Bhushan in his life’s journey. “At first, I was overwhelmed, but I believe moments like these inspire you – or at least reassure you – that you’re on the right path and should continue doing what you’ve been doing all these years. I feel I’m on the right track, so I focus on my work, stick to my work ethic, and move forward.”
He also took the opportunity to acknowledge the unwavering support of his family, especially his wife, Shalini. “I am grateful to my family for their support. Shalini…she made so many sacrifices. She’s been my pillar; I’m extremely grateful to the universe,” Ajith expressed. He further credited Shalini for her significant role in his achievements, recognizing her own popularity and the sacrifices she made in their journey together.
The Padma Bhushan ceremony, held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, was a momentous occasion, with Ajith’s wife, Shalini, and their children in attendance, proudly witnessing him receive the honour. Upon their return to Chennai, Shalini shared her joy, stating, “We are extremely happy. It was a wonderful experience. Watching Ajith sir receive the award at Rashtrapati Bhavan was truly a proud and joyous moment.”
Ajith Kumar’s humility and deep appreciation for his middle-class roots resonate strongly with his fans, who have showered him with love and support throughout his illustrious career spanning over three decades. His recent film, “Good Bad Ugly,” has also been well-received, further solidifying his position in the Tamil film industry.
