Chandni Chowk To China

Akshay Kumar is in a charitable mood. When Akshay learnt that two of his closest friends, actor Manoj Joshi and producer Rakesh Upadhyay were organising a show of Manoj's play Chanakya for the family of late constable Tukaram Ombale, the actor promptly sent a cheque of Rs 5 lakh for Ombale's family.

That's not all. Akshay has also taken the responsibility of educating Ombale's younger daughters Vaishali and Bharti. Ombale lost his life while trying to nab terrorist Ajmal Qasab on the night of 26/11.

Although Akshay did not attend the play as he was busy, he made it a point to send his sister Alka to attend the show. Alka met Tukaram's daughter Vaishali and gave her the cheque.

We tried to get in touch with one of Ombale's elder daughters, Vandana whose husband Rajendra said, "Yes, Akshayji has given us a cheque of Rs 5 lakh. He has also offered financial assistance for Vaishali's as well as Bharti's education. Vaishali is doing her B.Ed while Bharti is a final year B.Com student."

And have they spoken to Akshay after receiving the cheque? "Unfortunately, we have not been able to speak to Akshayji as he has been very busy," said Rajendra.

Manoj Joshi said, "Although Tukaram only had a lathi to fight the terrorist, he did not care for his life even though he knew that Qasab had deadly weapons. Tukaram's bravery should not go unnoticed. Akshay has done what few people would do. I have newfound respect for him."