Akshay Kumar stands up for Vivek

Could there be a lobby working against Vivek Oberoi ? The actor is definitely keeping a low profile these days. Anyway, he seems to have found a friend in Akshay Kumar.

Last weekend it was rumoured that Viveik had approached Vipul Shah for Upen Patel's role in the recently released "Namestey London".

When Akshay heard the rumours, he got angry and said in disgust: "I'm absolutely shocked that people can actually go to such an extent without verifying the facts. Viveik is like a younger brother to me.

"I wanted Viveik to work in the film and suggested as much to Shah. I can't believe why people are saying otherwise. I have great regard for Viveik and his potential as an actor."

Sources close to Akshay confirmed that Shah asked Viveik to meet him at his office to go through the script and he went to meet the director out of respect. But when Viveik heard the script, he felt the role would fit a newcomer and politely told Shah that he would not be able to do it.

The role eventually went to Upen Patel. It proved to be a great vehicle for him, and in spite of being a newcomer Upen was highly appreciated for his performance in the film.