How Did Rajkumar Rao Break Through Bollywood Without Any Industry Connections?

The story of Rajkummar Rao can be regarded as a message that no amount of lack of film background could stop true talent with undying desire to be heard. In a recent interview, the renowned actor gave an insight as to how his standing out as an outsider in the industry actually gave him the biggest advantage.

He stated that he did not have a predetermined path, or the baggage of his family name and he was given the chance to see how creative he can get as well as more directly find his own voice. 

It was this lack of pressure that he would have felt had he been born into a film family that enabled him make decisions not commonly accepted, accept a variety of roles and create a niche in the film industry that is purely his own.

The Freedom of Choice and Experimentation

Some feel they have a legacy to uphold, that it is expected of them to work a sort of formula and that formula usually begins with the commercial masala films. Such conventions, however, did not tie Rajkummar.

And an example of being open to variety exists in his career. What it makes his filmography reflective of, though, is a bold spirit, be it the intense biographical drama Shahid, the quirky horror-comedy Stree, or the powerful sports drama Mr. & Mrs. Mahi. He has always selected roles that add a challenge to him as an actor, and this shows that his artistic vision has been the one driving his career.

Staying Grounded and True to the Craft

The actor attributes his simple upbringing as being good to the ground. He says that due to his path, which was full of trials and failures, he realized the value of all opportunities. The authenticity in his roles comes out in his performances and thus relatable and authentic. Rajkummar points out that he has never targeted becoming a star and instead his intention is always to become a good actor.

The philosophy has enabled him to reach the audience at a personal level thus earning a fan base that appreciates his work and is willing to trust his decisions. He is an ardent believer of marathon, not a sprint and this attitude can be very well illustrated through his career.

Also Read: Ranbir Kapoor Made a Career Choice: Picks Ramayana Over Kishore Kumar Biopic, Says Anurag Basu