This year, Bollywood actor Rajkummar Rao has already had three major releases and is currently busy working on his upcoming projects. Even with such a packed schedule, he remains one of the most bankable stars in the industry today.
Celebrating his birthday on August 31, Rajkummar Rao, originally born as Rajkumar Yadav, has transformed himself into one of the most versatile actors in the world of showbiz since his debut in 2010 with “Love Sex Aur Dhokha.” He has consistently impressed audiences and critics alike with his impressive performances across a variety of genres. If you enjoyed Rajkummar in ‘Stree 2’, here are ten other must-watch movies showcasing his acting prowess.
**1. Shahid (2012)**
“Shahid” stands as a cornerstone in Rajkummar Rao’s illustrious career. Directed by Hansal Mehta, the film delves into the life of Shahid Azmi, a lawyer and human rights activist. Rao’s portrayal of Azmi garnered him the National Film Award for Best Actor. His deep immersion into the character and authentic portrayal of Azmi’s journey—from his struggles to his eventual triumphs—underscores his dedication to his craft. The movie’s narrative integrity and Rao’s performance make it a pivotal watch.
**2. Kai Po Che! (2013)**
In “Kai Po Che!”, adapted from Chetan Bhagat’s novel, Rajkummar Rao took on the role of Govind, a pragmatic character with dreams of a better future. This role marked the dawn of Rao’s career, illustrating his potential for exceptional performances. The film highlighted Govind’s essence and his camaraderie with friends, setting the stage for Rao’s future successes in the industry.
**3. Aligarh (2015)**
“Aligarh” is a sensitive portrayal of Prof. Siras (Manoj Bajpayee), a Marathi professor and head of the Classical Modern Indian Languages Faculty at Aligarh Muslim University, who faces suspension on grounds of morality. Rajkummar Rao plays a journalist who gives voice to Siras’s plight. This riveting drama received critical acclaim, with stellar performances by Manoj Bajpayee and guidance under director Hansal Mehta.
**4. Trapped (2016)**
“Trapped” is a genre-defining film in Rajkummar Rao’s career, showcasing extreme survival drama. In this film, Rao portrays Shaurya, a man trapped in an apartment without basic necessities like food, water, and electricity. His compelling depiction of desperation, hope, and human spirit in such a grim setting is a testament to his versatile talent.
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**5. Bareilly Ki Barfi (2017)**
Directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, “Bareilly Ki Barfi” is based on Nicolas Barreau’s best-selling novel ‘The Ingredients of Love.’ The plot revolves around Bitti, a free-spirited young woman played by Kriti Sanon, who refuses societal pressure to marry. Rajkummar Rao shines as Pritam Vidrohi, the author admired by Bitti and a pivotal character in the narrative, adding to the film’s charm.
**6. Newton (2017)**
In “Newton”, Rajkummar Rao takes on the role of Newton Kumar, a government clerk dedicated to conducting a fair election in a conflict-ridden region. Under the direction of Amit V. Masurkar, Rao’s performance seamlessly blends satire with realism. His portrayal emphasizes Newton’s ideals and humor, resonating deeply with the audience and earning widespread acclaim.
**7. Stree (2018) and Stree 2 (2024)**
Rajkummar Rao’s role in ‘Stree’ and its sequel ‘Stree 2’ demonstrates his versatility as an actor in the horror-comedy genre. Playing Vicky, a skilled tailor in a town haunted by a mysterious female ghost, Rao’s performance blend humor and suspense masterfully, making both films highly entertaining.
**8. Badhaai Do (2022)**
In “Badhaai Do,” Rajkummar Rao breaks barriers by portraying Shardul Thakur, a gay police officer navigating societal expectations and personal battles. His sensitive portrayal of Shardul’s internal conflict and the complexities of concealing his sexual orientation from family and society is both compelling and transformative.
**9. Monica, O My Darling (2022)**
“Monica, O My Darling” offers a neo-noir twist with Rajkummar Rao playing Jayant Arkhedkar, a robotics expert who concocts the perfect murder plan, only to descend into chaos. The film’s intricate plot and Rao’s layered performance as he enlists oddball colleagues in his schemes enhance its gripping storyline.
**10. Srikanth (2024)**
‘Srikanth’ charts the inspiring life of entrepreneur Srikanth Bolla, who established Bollant Industries, providing employment for unskilled and differently-abled individuals. Born visually impaired, Srikanth’s journey from adversity to triumph is honored in this biopic. Rajkummar Rao’s portrayal promises to resonate with audiences, adding another significant milestone to his career.
With numerous diverse roles and an unwavering commitment to his art, Rajkummar Rao continues to be a dynamic force in Bollywood. His evolving filmography not only highlights his versatility but also cements his status as one of today’s most talented actors.
