Struggles of Famous Actors: From Empty Stomachs to Stardom

This article delves into the inspiring journeys of renowned Bollywood actors who faced significant struggles before achieving fame. From Akshay Kumar's days of sleeping on an empty stomach to Ravi Kishan's newspaper-selling days, and Sunil Dutt's experience as a bus conductor, these stories highlight the resilience and determination of these stars. Their paths to success are filled with challenges that many aspiring actors can relate to, making their eventual triumphs all the more remarkable. Read on to learn more about their incredible journeys.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 21, 2026, 22:33 IST

The Journey of Aspiring Actors

Actors: Mumbai is often referred to as the city of dreams, not only because it is the hub of Indian cinema but also due to the aspirations of those who come here seeking fame and fortune. The allure of this vibrant city draws many hopefuls who wish to make it big in the film industry.

In the 1980s, a young man arrived in Mumbai with ambitions but without a clear goal. Let's explore the stories of actors who faced hardships, with some selling newspapers, others going to bed hungry, and a few even working as bus conductors.

Actors Who Went to Bed Hungry

One such actor is Rajiv Bhatia, better known as Akshay Kumar. He is famously referred to as 'Khiladi Kumar' in the film industry. Coming from a middle-class family, Akshay's father managed to send him to Bangkok by gathering funds from various sources. To make ends meet, Akshay worked as a waiter in a hotel and shared a room with other boys in the staff quarters.

In an interview, Akshay revealed that he lived in a room in Chandni Chowk, Delhi, with 24 other individuals. He candidly mentioned that there were times when he had to sleep on an empty stomach.

Achieving Dreams Through Newspaper Sales

Ravi Kishan, a well-known actor who has made a mark in Bhojpuri, Bollywood, and South cinema, is another inspiring figure. During his struggling days, he sold newspapers door-to-door to support his family financially.

Today, Ravi Kishan is a millionaire, charging substantial fees for his film roles. He made his acting debut in the Hindi film 'Giraft' (1992) and later starred in his first Bhojpuri film 'Saiyaan Hamaar' (2003).

The Legendary Bus Conductor

Sunil Dutt, an actor who dedicated five decades to cinema and starred in over 80 films, won the hearts of audiences with his remarkable performances. Before achieving stardom, he took on various odd jobs to support himself.

Among these jobs, he worked as a bus conductor. After his father's death, he moved with his mother from Pakistan to Lucknow and eventually to Mumbai, where he juggled studies and work to earn a living. He once shared these experiences in an interview, highlighting the struggles he faced before becoming a celebrated star.