Rajkummar Rao is one of the most versatile and acclaimed actors in the Indian film industry. Known for his realistic performances, he has earned a reputation for portraying challenging and unconventional roles in both mainstream and independent cinema. Rajkummar's journey from a small-town boy to a National Award-winning actor is a testament to his perseverance, dedication, and love for acting.
Early Life
Rajkummar Rao was born on August 31, 1984, in Gurugram, Haryana. He grew up in a middle-class family and was always passionate about acting. During his school days, he participated in various stage shows and plays, which fueled his desire to pursue a career in acting. He completed his graduation from Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College in Delhi and later joined the prestigious Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, to study acting formally.
Struggles
Despite his formal training, Rajkummar Rao’s initial years in Mumbai were filled with struggles. He faced numerous rejections, often being told he didn’t have the "conventional Bollywood hero" looks. He lived in a rented apartment and juggled between auditions and small modeling gigs to make ends meet. It took him several years before he landed his first significant role. His persistence paid off when he got a small part in the 2010 film Love Sex Aur Dhokha directed by Dibakar Banerjee, marking his debut in Bollywood.
Becoming Successful
Rajkummar’s breakthrough came with the film Kai Po Che! in 2013, where he garnered critical acclaim for his role as a young cricketer. Following this, he delivered a string of outstanding performances in movies like Shahid (which won him a National Film Award), CityLights, Trapped, Newton, and Stree.
In 2018, Stree became a massive hit, blending horror and comedy in a unique way. Rajkummar's portrayal of Vicky, a small-town tailor caught in a supernatural mystery, was widely praised. This success led to the announcement of Stree 2, one of the most anticipated sequels in recent times. Upon its release, Stree 2 replicated the success of its predecessor, becoming a major box office hit. Rajkummar's comic timing, along with his ability to convey vulnerability in a horror setting, played a pivotal role in making the film a success. This franchise cemented Rajkummar's standing as a bankable star in the industry.
Learnings from Life
Rajkummar Rao's life teaches the importance of patience, hard work, and resilience. He believes in constantly evolving as an actor and a person. His journey highlights the fact that rejection is a part of life, and success comes to those who persevere. Rajkummar’s ability to remain humble despite his fame shows the importance of staying grounded, no matter how high you rise.
Advice to Others
Rajkummar Rao advises aspiring actors to believe in themselves and be patient in the face of adversity. He emphasizes that success in the film industry, or any field, comes with hard work and a never-give-up attitude. He often says that one should focus on their craft and continuously work to improve it rather than running after fame or money.
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