Rajkummar Rao REVEALS Why Not Belonging To A Film Family Helped Him Succeed: 'I Am Very Proud...'
Rajkummar Rao opens up about how being an outsider in Bollywood gave him the freedom to experiment and carve his own path, free from the expectations of a film family.
Rajkummar Rao has long been hailed as one of Bollywood's most versatile performers — a chameleon who has effortlessly slipped into horror, comedy, drama, and romance with equal conviction. Over the years, he has built a loyal fan base that admires his adaptability, dedication, and the authenticity he brings to every role. Now, the Stree 2 star credits a key factor behind his journey — his outsider status.
In an interview with Hindustan Times, Rao revealed that not coming from a film family gave him the creative freedom to explore without fear of judgment or the pressure to conform to industry expectations. 'Not having a film background gave me the freedom to find my own voice. There were no expectations to follow a path. I am very proud of my journey and would not trade it for anything else. And it definitely helped me stay grounded," he said.
Rao has consistently sought out variety in his roles, deliberately avoiding being typecast. From the supernatural thrills of Stree to the gritty gangster drama Maalik and the comedic charm of Bhool Chuk Maaf, he has made it a point to embrace contrasting genres. When asked if this was a conscious decision, he replied, 'Yes, very much so."
He explained that exploring different types of characters keeps his work fresh and meaningful. 'I have always wanted to explore different kinds of stories and characters, as it helps me to keep my work real and exciting," the actor shared.
Recently seen in Maalik opposite Manushi Chhillar, Rao's rugged gangster look earned praise for being a complete departure from his previous avatars. According to Pinkvilla, the actor has also signed on for a two-hero comedy directed by Shoojit Sircar, set to begin filming toward the end of 2025. The second lead is yet to be announced.
Looking ahead, Rao will step into the shoes of Indian cricket legend Sourav Ganguly for his much-awaited biopic. Filming is expected to begin in January 2026, with a planned release in December that year.
With a career built on risk-taking and reinvention, Rajkummar Rao continues to prove that staying true to one's craft — and refusing to be boxed in — is the ultimate key to longevity in the industry.
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