This was the laugh riot that changed it all for Akshay.

Priyadarshan's side-splitting merry-go-round, about three goofy guys out of luck and money, made even the harshest of cynics sit up and notice AK's comic aptitude.

His Raju is a lovable rogue and a sly rascal, who while readily swindling every unsuspecting bakra, still has his crooked heart in its rightful place.

One saw a little bit of Raju in all his subsequent comedies like Garam Masala and Bhagam Bhaag.