There's no denying that Actor Ajith Kumar, one of the most celebrated icons in Tamil cinema, is not only known for his powerful on-screen performances but also for his passion as a full-time racing driver. In a recent interview with Hollywood Reporter India, Ajith opened up about his journey in the film industry, the challenges he faced, and the personal sacrifices that come with fame.

Reflecting on his early days, Ajith recalled how he struggled with the Tamil language when he first entered the industry. “I couldn’t speak the language properly. I had an accent in Tamil. But I worked on it,” he shared. He also revealed that he was advised to change his name early in his career, but he chose to remain true to himself. “I was initially asked to change my name because they felt it was not a very common name to have. I insisted that I would not want to have any other name,” he said.

Ajith attributed his success to persistence, hard work, and teamwork. He emphasised the importance of having the right people around him, both in cinema and racing. “I put my heart and soul into everything. There were a lot of challenges, but I overcame them. Even when it comes to racing, I am probably working as hard as a 19-year-old wanting to make racing a career. You need to put the right team together. I have been very lucky with the directors, producers, and technicians I work with. I am learning so much from them,” he explained. Ajith also mentioned that he has undergone 29 surgeries as a result of performing his own stunts throughout his film career.

The actor expressed deep gratitude to his wife, Shalini, for being his pillar of strength. “I don’t think I am an easy person to live with. I have put her through a lot of hard times, but she has been very supportive. Till the kids came along, she would travel with me for my races. None of this would have been possible without her support,” he said.

Despite his immense success, Ajith admitted that fame comes with a price. He spoke candidly about how it limits his personal freedom and time with his family. “I am confined to my home most of the time. I am grateful to my fans for all the love they give, but because of that same love, I hardly get to be out with my family. I can’t go to my son’s school to drop him off. There have been times when I have been asked to leave, very politely. In terms of comfort and a good lifestyle, fame gives you a lot, but the things that really matter to you, it takes away all that from you,” he said thoughtfully.

Ajith’s words offer an intimate glimpse into the man behind the star, someone who continues to balance ambition, humility, and a deep sense of gratitude despite the many sacrifices fame demands.

Source / Image Credit : Indian Express, The Economic Times, Mathrubhumi English