This year, Bollywood actor Rajkummar Rao has proven once again why he is one of the most sought-after talents in the industry. With three major releases already in 2024 and several upcoming projects, Rao is a symbol of dedication and versatility in Indian cinema.
Rajkummar Rao, born Rajkumar Yadav, celebrates his birthday on August 31. Since making his acting debut with the provocative film “Love Sex Aur Dhokha” in 2010, he has continually reinvented himself, taking on roles that challenge the norms and push the boundaries of conventional storytelling. Over the years, his career has been a testament to hard work and an unyielding passion for his craft.
Here’s a look at the top 10 movies that highlight Rao’s versatility and dedication to his craft:
### **Shahid (2012)**
“Shahid” is a landmark film in Rao’s career. Directed by Hansal Mehta, the biographical drama required Rao to embody Shahid Azmi, a lawyer and human rights activist who dedicated his life to fighting for the marginalized. The role demanded intense immersion into Azmi’s multifaceted personality—from his struggles to his victories. The film’s narrative integrity and Rao’s compelling portrayal earned him a National Film Award for Best Actor, solidifying his place among the elite in Bollywood.
### **Kai Po Che! (2013)**
In “Kai Po Che!”, adapted from Chetan Bhagat’s novel, Rao portrayed Govind, a pragmatic character with towering dreams. Directed by Abhishek Kapoor, Kai Po Che! showcased Rao’s ability to seamlessly blend sincerity with conviction. His performance was pivotal in bringing the essence of Govind’s character to life, marking the beginning of what was to become an illustrious career filled with memorable roles.
### **Aligarh (2015)**
“Aligarh,” directed by Hansal Mehta, tells the poignant story of a professor (Manoj Bajpayee) suspended from Aligarh Muslim University on moral grounds. Rajkummar Rao played the role of a journalist sympathetic to the professor’s plight, advocating for justice. The film received critical acclaim and won numerous awards for its sensitive treatment of the subject matter and the profound performances by its lead actors.
### **Trapped (2016)**
“Trapped” remains one of the most compelling showcases of Rao’s acting prowess. Directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, this survival thriller required Rao to portray Shaurya, a man accidentally locked in an apartment without basic essentials like food, water, or electricity. His portrayal of deep desperation and resourcefulness under dire circumstances captivated audiences, highlighting his commitment to physically and emotionally demanding roles.
### **Bareilly Ki Barfi (2017)**
In this Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari directorial, based on Nicolas Barreau’s novel ‘The Ingredients of Love’, Rao took on the role of Pritam Vidrohi.
. The film revolves around the life of Bitti, a free-spirited young woman, played by Kriti Sanon. Rao’s playful yet earnest portrayal of Vidrohi, an author with a secret identity, added charm and depth to the film, making it a delightful watch.
### **Newton (2017)**
Under Amit V. Masurkar’s direction, “Newton” blended satire with realism, showcasing Rao as Newton Kumar, a principled government clerk determined to conduct fair elections in a conflict-ridden area. Rao’s performance was marked by subtlety and finesse, navigating through Newton’s ideals with a touch of humor that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. This role further exemplified Rao’s ability to make significant social statements through cinema.
### **Stree (2018) and Stree 2 (2024)**
“Stree” and its 2024 sequel “Stree 2” allowed Rao to showcase his comedic and dramatic skills. Playing Vicky, a skilled tailor grappling with the legend of a female ghost, Rao’s performances were both hilarious and haunting. The horror-comedy elements and Rao’s impeccable timing contributed to the films’ massive success.
### **Badhaai Do (2022)**
“Badhaai Do” stands out in Rao’s filmography for its sensitive portrayal of Shardul Thakur, a gay police officer. Directed by Harshavardhan Kulkarni, the film delves into Shardul’s internal conflicts and the societal pressures he faces, bringing to light the complexities of LGBTQ+ issues in India. Rao’s nuanced performance was widely appreciated for its authenticity and depth.
### **Monica, O My Darling (2022)**
This neo-noir film, directed by Vasan Bala, presents Rao as Jayant Arkhedkar, a robotics expert entangled in a web of crime. “Monica, O My Darling” is a tribute to films about the perfect plan gone awry, and Rao’s portrayal of a man striving to execute the perfect murder is both thrilling and darkly comedic, demonstrating his range in handling complex narratives.
### **Srikanth (2024)**
“Srikanth” tells the inspiring story of Srikanth Bolla, a visually impaired entrepreneur who founded Bollant Industries, employing unskilled and differently-abled individuals. Directed by Tushar Hiranandani, this film honors Bolla’s remarkable journey and spirit, with Rao bringing extraordinary dedication and authenticity to the role.
As Rajkummar Rao continues to captivate audiences with his diverse range of roles, it’s clear that his commitment to storytelling and his ability to ingeniously capture the essence of every character he portrays are what make him a true star of Indian cinema. With more projects lined up, fans can eagerly look forward to more groundbreaking performances from this versatile actor.
