“I don’t discuss my salary even with my mother, wife or sister” – Akshay

For centuries, the golden rule around basic etiquettes has been 'Never ask a woman her age and a man his salary'. However, when it comes to the world of glamour where a celebrity's life is out there in open with millions dying to know what happens behind the scenes, the golden rule is pretty much kept aside consciously. An actress' age is always under scrutiny and an actor's remuneration a hot topic for discussion.

"The same is happening for Akshay Kumar as well whose compensation has traditionally been the centre of attraction, ever since he came into the topmost bracket of actors", says a trade insider, "There have been countless speculations around what he is getting paid for the sequel to Ekta Kapoor's Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai. While some state that the amount is around Rs. 15 crores, many have even pegged the amount to be in excess of Rs. 20 crores. There are also rumours in the air that just like many of his recent films including next week's release Thank You, even Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai 2 would have Akshay in a partnership mode with the producer."

Akshay is expectedly not too pleased with all the loose talks and refuses to go on records about the amount he charges. "I would never even consider setting any records straight or even think to speak about any such numbers in any way, shape, or form, especially if it was just to satisfy anyone's curiosity. When I wouldn't want the world to be walking into my home, why would I want them walking into my accountants office."

One being told that this was the price he must be willing to pay for his celebrity status, Akshay mellows down a little.

"Please do not find me rude if I don't really want to discuss my salary with anyone. Have you forgotten the golden rule", Akshay reminds, "This principle goes for all my work. Trust me when I say this that I do not discuss my financials even with my mother, wife or my sister - the three people who are closest to me. Reason being that it neither matters nor makes a difference to anyone other than my producer and myself. Even celebrities have their personal lives and there are some things that are best kept private, one should understand that."

Guess in that case Akshay, the room for speculation would continue to be open forever.