Akshay put family ahead of work

Akshay Kumar has declared that he plans to shoot fewer films due to family commitments.

Kumar, who has already appeared in three films in 2009, intends to use his increased spare time to spend time with his son Aarav.

He told The Times of India: "I have been spending a lot of time with Aarav but it's not enough. I have been planning to take this step for a long time but it kept getting postponed. I need to be there for Aarav.

"I'd rather miss out on work than miss the chance to be with my son when he needs me the most. I can go on being an actor until I die but my son's growing-up years won't come back."

The 42-year-old actor will next be seen in Blue, which is scheduled for release on October 16.