Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar who is known for his commercial films, stunned the industry when he signed 'Special 26', a film based on the real life incidents of a dacoit. Nonetheless, not many know that the film was offered to him four years back but it was only now that he agreed to do it.

"I was offered the basic script four years ago but things didn't work out then. But when the producers again offered the script, I wondered why I refused the film before," said Akshay.

Directed by Neeraj Pandey who also directed 'A Wednesday!', the film has been a great experience for Akshay. "I had a great time shooting for the film and everything I've done in this is taught to me by Neeraj," confessed Akshay.

The director too goes gaga over Akki stating that he was the only choice for the film. "From the very beginning, we were sure of casting Akshay as the lead and he proved our decision right. He is extremely disciplined and dedicated as an actor," said Neeraj.

Also starring Manoj Bajpai, Jimmy Shergill, Anupam Kher and Kajal Agarwal in lead, the film is slated to release on February 8, 2013.