Kushagra Tiwari, Mumbai: A month-long wait for 35-year-old Ashok Kanjariya ended on an emotional and joyful note on Wednesday, as he finally met Hindi film actor Akshay Kumar. A native of Rajkot, Ashok had walked around 700 km barefoot from the Ghanteshwar area in Rajkot to Mumbai and had been camping in the city for over a month in the hope of meeting the actor.

The long-awaited meeting took place at around 8:30 AM after he finally caught the actor’s attention with the help of others who shared his story.

Speaking to DeshGujarat, Ashok said that Akshay Kumar had instructed his security team a day earlier to “call the boy who wants to meet me” the next morning at 8:00 AM. Though a dedicated Ashok arrived as early as 7:00 AM to ensure he didn’t miss the opportunity.

During the brief interaction, the actor, who was on his way to a film shoot, asked Ashok about his family and blessed him, saying, “Khush raho beta” (Stay happy, son). Ashok said he became emotional during the meeting. “Akshay Sir addressed me as ‘beta’ several times. God has fulfilled my wish,” he said.

A Message from the ‘Khiladi’

While the meeting was a dream come true, Akshay Kumar also offered practical advice. On learning about the 700 km barefoot journey, he told Ashok that such a walk was not advisable.

“Akshay Sir asked about my journey and family. He advised me not to walk such long distances to meet someone, saying it is risky as highways are full of vehicles. He then told me, ‘Aaram se raho, khush raho beta’,” Ashok said. Although photography was initially not allowed, Ashok said the actor obliged his request for a picture.

Heading Home

Ashok, who had been staying near the actor’s bungalow holding a tricolour and wearing a T-shirt with Akshay Kumar’s photo on it, expressed gratitude to friends from Rajkot and supporters who helped him during his journey and stay in Mumbai. He especially mentioned Kumar Yadav, a Mumbai resident, who assisted him throughout his time in the city.

With his wish now fulfilled, Ashok, a Rapido rider by profession, is preparing to return to Rajkot. He plans to start wearing shoes again after reaching home, as he had completed the entire journey barefoot. He is scheduled to leave from Dadar Railway Station at 9:00 AM tomorrow and is expected to reach Rajkot by 12:30 AM the following day.

Speaking about his family’s reaction, Ashok said, “I sent them my picture with Akshay Sir. They were very happy that my wish has finally been fulfilled.”

When asked about future plans, he said he currently has no intention of undertaking such a journey again, though he expressed a desire to meet spiritual leader Morari Bapu.

Ashok had begun his barefoot journey on February 17, 2026, and reached Mumbai on March 6, completing the 18-day walk. Despite arriving over a month ago, he was unable to meet Akshay Kumar until now. DeshGujarat