Mumbai, July 28 - Akshay Kumar's gallant nature was revealed in London when his 'Housefull' co-star Deepika Paudkone was laid up with a bout of malaria. He not only made sure Deepika was looked after, but also persuaded her to stay away from shooting.

While Deepika was resting, alternative scenes that didn't require her were shot.

'I'm recovering. I was bedridden for three days. And yes, I did return to the set on Saturday. I had to shoot. But I'm not sure whether it was the wisest of decisions, considering it was malaria,' Deepika told IANS from London.

Akshay and Deepika earlier teamed up for 'Chandni Chowk To China', which turned out to be a box office dud. But the film's failure hasn't affected their friendship.

'I'm lucky to be surrounded by gallant men. Whether it's my dad, Ranbir (Kapoor), Akshay, Shah Rukh Khan or any of my co-stars, I haven't so far encountered any ill-behaved men,' said Deepika whose next release is 'Love Aaj Kal'.