One of the most versatile actors in Bollywood today, Rajkummar Rao, has had a remarkably busy year. With three major releases in 2024 alone and more exciting projects in the pipeline, the star continues to solidify his reputation as both a busy and bankable presence in Indian cinema.
Rajkummar Rao, who celebrates his birthday on August 31, was born as Rajkumar Yadav. He made an impressive entry into the world of acting with his debut in the 2010 film “Love Sex Aur Dhokha.” Over the years, Rao has established himself as a chameleon in front of the camera, effortlessly slipping into diverse roles and leaving a lasting impact. While his latest movie, ‘Stree 2,’ has garnered much attention, there are other films in his filmography that showcase his incredible versatility. Let’s take a look at ten significant movies featuring Rajkummar Rao that you might not have seen yet.
1. **Shahid (2012)**
“Shahid” stands as a cornerstone in Rajkummar Rao’s career, launching him to the forefront of India’s finest actors. Directed by Hansal Mehta, this drama chronicles the life of Shahid Azmi, a lawyer and human rights activist. Rao’s portrayal of Azmi is a masterclass in acting, navigating the complexities of Azmi’s challenging journey with finesse. The film’s narrative integrity earned Rao a National Film Award for Best Actor, cementing his status as a dedicated and compelling performer.
2. **Kai Po Che! (2013)**
Adapted from Chetan Bhagat’s novel, “Kai Po Che!” was an early testament to Rao’s budding talent. Starring as Govind, a practical young man with big dreams, Rao delivered a sincere and convincing performance that captured the essence of friendship and aspiration. This film marked the beginning of his illustrious journey, setting the stage for many more memorable roles.
3. **Aligarh (2015)**
In “Aligarh,” Rao gives a sensitive portrayal alongside Manoj Bajpayee. The film, directed by Hansal Mehta, tells the poignant story of a professor at Aligarh Muslim University who faces suspension over issues of morality. Rao plays the sympathetic journalist who brings the professor’s narrative to light, contributing significantly to the film’s critical acclaim and numerous awards.
4. **Trapped (2016)**
“Trapped” is a remarkable survival thriller highlighting Rao’s commitment and acting prowess. Playing Shaurya, a man trapped in an apartment without basic necessities like food, water, or electricity, Rao keeps the audience gripped with his riveting performance, showcasing the extremes an actor can push themselves to.
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5. **Bareilly Ki Barfi (2017)**
Directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari and inspired by Nicolas Barreau’s novel ‘The Ingredients of Love’, “Bareilly Ki Barfi” is a delightful romantic comedy. The film features Rao as Pritam Vidrohi, a character who wittily evolves amidst his quirky circumstances, earning applause for his dynamic and engaging performance.
6. **Newton (2017)**
“Newton,” a perfect blend of satire and realism directed by Amit V. Masurkar, features Rao as Newton Kumar. As a determined government clerk bent on conducting a fair election in a conflict-ridden area, Rao’s subtle performance strikes a chord with its balance of humor and idealism. The film was lauded for its sharp critique veiled in a deceptively simple narrative.
7. **Stree (2018) and Stree 2 (2024)**
In the realm of horror-comedy, Rao’s role as Vicky in “Stree” and its sequel, “Stree 2,” showcases his versatility and comic timing. Playing a small-town tailor who encounters the legend of a mysterious female spirit, he brings an engaging blend of fear and comedy to the screen.
8. **Badhaai Do (2022)**
“Badhaai Do” is another significant film in Rao’s career, where he steps into the shoes of Shardul Thakur, a gay police officer. His performance delves deep into the nuanced struggles of hiding his true self from his family and societal norms, adding another layer to his acting repertoire.
9. **Monica, O My Darling (2022)**
Rao shines in this neo-noir thriller as Jayant Arkhedkar, a robotics expert entangled in a murky plan. “Monica, O My Darling” is a testament to his capability to adapt to a vast range of genres, each time delivering an impactful performance.
10. **Srikanth (2024)**
“Srikanth” tells the inspiring story of Srikanth Bolla, a visually impaired entrepreneur who founded Bollant Industries to employ differently-abled individuals. Rao’s portrayal honors the spirit of resilience and ambition, making it a standout narrative about overcoming adversity.
Rajkummar Rao continues to demonstrate his capacity to inhabit a wide array of characters, making him one of the most compelling actors in Bollywood today. With each role, he brings something uniquely profound, reminding audiences why he remains a talent worth watching in the years to come.
