We are too easily offended

Akshaye Khanna was last seen in Varun Dhawan and John Abraham starrer Dhishoom, where he played a negative role. The actor is making a comeback of sorts this year with Sridevi’s upcoming film Mom where he is playing a cop. 
 
What made you take up this film?
It was a combination of many things, actually. The script, my role, people who are involved in it, Boney Kapoor, great ensemble cast, and the chance to work with Sridevi -- everything together was the reason. I couldn't point to any one aspect of the film and say it could have been better. I am playing a cop who is investigating a case.
 
How was it working with Sridevi?
There was not much communication on the sets, since we're both quiet people. But even without interacting much, you can enjoy working with one another, respect each other’s talent, and learn so much. It was wonderful to work with her. One must be stupid to throw away an opportunity to work with any artiste who has reached that stage in their career,. Because it is rare, how many actors will get a chance to work with her? It is beautiful to see that kind of talent at work, like watching JRD Tata at work in his office.
 
How did you get along with director Ravi Udyawar?
I have seen his work, We get very few good new directors these days, like an Imtiaz Ali or a Rajkumar Hirani. After working with Ravi, I feel he will be an interesting addition to the industry. I believed in Boney and Sridevi’s conviction, and they were proven right. I think Ravi will give us beautiful content in the future. His standards in writing department are high, and once you get it right on paper, you are ninety percent through. Getting quality writing is tough.
 
What keeps you busy when you are not working?
When I am not shooting, I am basically depressed. So my life is controlling that depression. For any creative person to suppress that creativity will break something inside him or her. It doesn’t feel good. It is not necessary that people should like what I express, but the point is that I need to express it. Very few people get opportunity to do what I am doing, though, and I feel it is a blessing.
 
Do you want to explore any aspect of film making in future?
Not really. Filmmaking is all about the pecking order. It is like a pyramid, and the director is right at the top, so becoming a director or producer is all about getting more control. But with control and power, comes responsibility too. It is a big step for an actor; it is different ball game. I have never desired more control, nor have I had the urge to direct or produce films.
 
Do you consciously stay away from the limelight?
Everyone wants to be heard or seen, these days I think that is what all these social media platforms are providing. It is all about putting out what you think and feel in a public domain, where anyone can see it. But, anything in the public eye is open to scrutiny, more so when you are an actor, politician or a sports personality. And we are a nation of easily offended people. I think we should learn to laugh at ourselves little more and take ourselves little less seriously. The scrutiny, and consequent backlash, is not something I am comfortable with. But maybe, down the line, I will be on social media. I think I will give it try, at least on Twitter, and share my thoughts once in a while. 
 
Do you have any inclination towards politics?
No, never. Politics fascinates me, but I cannot think about it as a profession. I don’t follow party politics per se, but I do read newspapers and watch the news. But I keep myself informed as a citizen, and not because I want to dive into that. I am not interested that at all. To be in politics, you primarily have to be a people person, that is a basic requirement, so it's not for me. Having said that, I have a high respect for the people who take up that life. 
 
Do you feel the need to get married at this point of time?
No, not at all. I will see when the time comes. I enjoy my aloneness. I respect it and value it a lot, but once you fall in love it just disappears.