Akshay Kumar, who plays a struggling road construction contractor in Priyadarshan’s satirical comedy Khatta Meetha, is called Sachin Tichkule in the film. But there’s more to the name than meets the eye.
Sachin Tichkule happens to be a real person who has inspired the superstar a great deal. He used to be Akshay’s neighbour in Bandra, during the latter’s days of struggle in the industry. The actor was so impressed with his Maharashtrian neighbour that he decided to name his character after him.
Reveals a source close to Akshay, “Akshay was thoroughly taken in by the disciplined lifestyle of his neighbour Sachin Tichkule. The man was also instrumental in helping him when he was just starting out as an actor. Hence, Akshay thought of paying a tribute to his neighbour.”
Khatta Meetha is largely a political satire on the municipal and construction dealings in India, told through Sachin Tichkule’s life. The story highlights the plight of the common man, like Sachin Tichkule, who is grounded and disciplined until he is forced to change his ways to survive the corrupt and convoluted system.
When quizzed about it, Akshay Kumar said, “I earnestly hope that the real Sachin Tichkule watches the film and appreciates it.”