Rajkummar Rao, the talented actor who hails from a small town, has carved out a unique space for himself in the Indian film industry. Over the past 14 years, he has moved from playing minor roles to becoming one of the most respected and versatile actors in Bollywood. His journey is not just about the films he has done, but also about the values he holds, the respect he has for his craft, and the importance he places on portraying women with dignity in his films.
A Humble Beginning: The Early Struggles
Rajkummar’s story begins in Gurgaon, where he was born and raised. His passion for acting ignited early, leading him to pursue theatre in Delhi. However, the path was anything but easy. Traveling from Gurgaon to Delhi for theatre, often by bicycle, Rajkummar experienced firsthand the struggles of an aspiring actor. The financial constraints were real, and the pressure to succeed was immense. Yet, his determination never wavered.
“When I decided to become an actor, it was not a popular choice,” Rajkummar recalls. “I used to travel long distances just to perform in small plays. It was a time of struggle, but also a time of learning. Every experience, every setback, taught me something valuable.”
In 2008, with a diploma from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in hand, Rajkummar made the big move to Mumbai. The city, known for its relentless pace and fierce competition, was daunting for a newcomer with no connections in the industry. “I didn’t know anyone when I came to Mumbai,” he says. “I had no idea where to start. But I had this fire inside me that kept me going. I knew this was what I wanted to do, and there was no plan B.”
The Breakthrough: Early Roles and Recognition
Rajkummar’s persistence paid off when he landed his first role in Dibakar Banerjee’s Love Sex Aur Dhokha (2010). The film, which was experimental in its format and storytelling, gave Rajkummar a platform to showcase his talent. Although the role was small, it was a significant step forward. This was followed by other minor roles in films like Gangs of Wasseypur, Shaitan, and Talaash. These roles, though limited in screen time, were enough to catch the attention of filmmakers and critics alike.
His big break came with Kai Po Che! (2013) and Shahid (2013). The latter, a biographical drama directed by Hansal Mehta, earned Rajkummar his first National Film Award for Best Actor. “Shahid was a game-changer for me,” he reflects. “The film allowed me to delve deep into the character, and the response was overwhelming. It was a validation of all the hard work I had put in over the years.”
Kai Po Che! also brought him widespread recognition and love from the audience. “That film showed a different side of me as an actor,” he says. “It was a story of friendship, dreams, and aspirations, and I think people connected with that on a very personal level.”
Embracing Versatility: From Drama to Horror Comedy
Rajkummar’s career trajectory is marked by his ability to take on diverse roles across genres. After establishing himself with intense dramas, he surprised audiences with his performance in the romantic comedy Bareilly Ki Barfi (2017). His portrayal of Pritam Vidrohi, a timid salesman who transforms into a brash character, was a testament to his range as an actor. The film was a commercial success and further solidified Rajkummar’s place in the industry.
Another milestone in his career was the horror-comedy Stree (2018), where he played the role of Vicky, a small-town tailor who encounters a mysterious spirit. The film was a massive hit, grossing over ₹180 crore worldwide, and became a cultural phenomenon. “Stree was special,” Rajkummar says with a smile. “It was a film that no one expected to work the way it did. But the audience loved it, and that’s the biggest reward for any actor.”
The success of Stree led to the making of its sequel, Stree 2, which was released earlier this year. The film has already crossed the ₹500 crore mark at the box office, a feat that Rajkummar attributes to the love of the audience. “The success of Stree 2 is all thanks to the audience. They have embraced the film and my character with so much love. It’s a great feeling to see your work being appreciated on such a large scale.”
A Shift in the Industry: Breaking the Star System
Rajkummar’s success, along with that of actors like Ayushmann Khurrana and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, has been instrumental in challenging the traditional star system in Bollywood. For decades, the industry was dominated by a few big names, often overshadowing the work of other talented actors. However, the rise of content-driven cinema has allowed actors like Rajkummar to shine.
“I’m happy that the focus is shifting towards good stories and performances,” Rajkummar says. “It’s not just about who’s starring in the film anymore. It’s about what the film is saying and how it’s being told. I think audiences are more discerning now, and they appreciate genuine talent.”
He also praises his contemporaries for their commitment to their craft. “Actors like Vicky Kaushal, Ranbir Kapoor, and many others are doing excellent work. They’re pushing themselves and taking on challenging roles. It’s an exciting time to be in the industry.”
Respect for Women: A Key Principle
One of the core principles that guide Rajkummar’s choices as an actor is the respect for women in the films he is a part of. “It’s very important for me that the female characters in my films are portrayed with dignity and respect,” he says. “I believe that cinema has a powerful influence on society, and we have a responsibility to portray women in a positive light.”
This commitment to gender equality is something that Rajkummar takes seriously, both on and off the screen. “As an artist, I’m aware of the impact my work can have. If a certain aspect of a character is essential for the story, I will do it, but I always make sure that it doesn’t send out the wrong message.”
He also acknowledges the challenges that come with portraying complex characters. “There are times when a character may not be ideal, like in the case of Animal. The film is about a character who is far from perfect, and it’s important to understand the psyche behind such roles. But even then, I make sure that my performance doesn’t glorify negative behavior.”
The Support System: Family and Personal Life
Behind Rajkummar’s success is a strong support system, particularly his wife, actress Patralekhaa. The two have been together for several years and got married in 2021. “Patralekhaa is my biggest critic, my first audience, and my strongest support,” Rajkummar shares. “She watches all my films and gives me honest feedback. Her opinion matters a lot to me because she herself is a talented actor and has a sharp eye for detail.”
He adds that their relationship is built on mutual respect and understanding. “We are partners in every sense of the word. She is there for me in my highs and lows, and I try to do the same for her. Having her by my side gives me a lot of strength and courage.”
The Road Ahead: Upcoming Projects and Aspirations
With the success of Stree 2, Rajkummar’s career is on an upward trajectory, and he shows no signs of slowing down. He is currently working on several projects, including the much-anticipated film Mahi, an intense drama that will see him in a completely new avatar. “I’m excited about Mahi,” he says. “It’s a challenging role, and I’m looking forward to how the audience will react to it.”
Rajkummar is also set to star in a new horror-comedy, which he describes as “fresh and innovative.” “I love exploring different genres, and horror-comedy is something that really excites me. It’s a genre that allows for a lot of creativity, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.”
Despite his success, Rajkummar remains grounded and focused on his craft. “I’m grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had, but I know that there’s still a long way to go. I want to continue working hard and taking on roles that challenge me as an actor.”
A Journey of Passion and Perseverance
Rajkummar Rao’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and staying true to one’s values. From his humble beginnings in Gurgaon to becoming one of Bollywood’s most respected actors, Rajkummar has remained committed to his craft and the principles he believes in. As he continues to push boundaries and take on diverse roles, there’s no doubt that his story will continue to inspire aspiring actors and filmmakers for years to come.
