Don't think 5 heroes will ever come together: Akshay Kumar on the multiple heroines in Mission Mangal

Despite the changing dynamics of the Hindi film industry, actor-producer Akshay Kumar admitted it was easier to bring five leading ladies together for Mission Mangal than getting five heroes.

The film, based on India's Mars mission, will see Vidya Balan, Taapsee Pannu, Sonakshi Sinha, Nithya Menon and Kirti Kulhari share space as the women scientists leading the mission. 

At a recent media interaction, Akshay Kumar was asked his thoughts on sharing the screen with so many actresses. He said, "That script demands them to be ahead. They are the real heroes, and I am supposed to be behind them. Even though I am producing it." 

The film was announced on 5 November, the anniversary of the mission's launch. Mission Mangal will be directed by first-time director Jagan Shakti. 

Speaking about the film, Akshay Kumar said, "I am very happy to see these five girls. They are very big in their own ways. They are not bothered about being five heroines coming together in one film. None of them had an attitude."

The star went on to add: "I don't think five heroes will ever come together in a film. When I approached them, they were very happy with their own roles and willing to do it." 

While he is not averse to doing multi-hero films, Akshay Kumar said, "I say, let there be seven. Rajkumar Kohli used to make [such films]. I did Jaani Dushman (2002)."

The actor also confirmed his involvement in a period drama, Prithviraj Chauhan, reportedly under talks with Yash Raj Films. "We are still finalizing it," he said. "We won't be able to start anytime soon. Maybe next year."

In addition, the actor has Housefull 4, and the period war epic, Kesari, which are set to be released in 2019. 

The actor will be seen next in 2.0, alongside Rajinikanth and Amy Jackson. The film will hit the theatres on 29 November.