Ajay Devgn, one of the most bankable stars in the industry who began with Phool aur Kaante in 1991, is proud of his early films and unconventional choices such as Zakhm and Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. He, in fact, believes what he did in the beginning of his career has become a trend now.

The 48-year-old actor said he always tried to strike a balance and never considered off-beat roles a risk. “I started playing characters in the 90s and people have started doing it now. It makes me really happy. I came from a cinema family and I always wanted to make good films. When I was choosing films like Zakhm it did not scare me. I never had in mind that these films would not work,” Ajay, the son of legendary action choreographer Veeru Devgan, told PTI.

“The fact that the audience has evolved gives us a lot of leverage,” the actor said, stressing that it has become easier for a mainstream star to experiment now. “Earlier there were times when we had a subject but couldn’t make because the audience didn’t like it. Now due to the exposure, people have started liking different subjects.”

To enjoy continued success and stardom for over 25 years is also no easy task and Devgn said his generation of actors — the three Khans, Akshay Kumar and him — was lucky to have a dedicated fan following, which is a rarity today.

The secret to stay relevant and be on top — as these stars are — lies in changing with the times, he said. “As a performer one needs to be open, honest and change or adapt with times. If somebody is thinking that what they are doing is right then it doesn’t work,” he said.

At a recent media interaction when the Raid star was asked if his generation would be the last of the stars to enjoy matchless adulation, Ajay said: “I think we were very lucky because when we had started work, they were very loyal fans. They still watch our films. The new generation has become very sensible, smart and intelligent. They go by the content. They will decide if the film is good or not, it won’t matter who is in the film.”