Rajkumar Rao: Aloof And Away

He’s not one of those you’d spot at every filmy party, or hobnobbing with the who’s who relentlessly. He’s aloof and away. But yet, so connected and communicative through his craft. Although he’s had a dry run at the ticket counters last year, he is earnestly prepping up for his upcoming releases. Rajkummar Rao, who’s showcased his acting mettle time and again, has rarely spoken of his roots. Not many know the real Raj, the person behind the camera. Pooja Sharma tries to find out more about the man behind the brooding, intense face.

- Pooja Sharma

What are your expectations from your next releases, Aligarh and Shimla Mirchi, considering both are completely different from one another?

My expectations are that people will appreciate the effort and sincerity with which we have made these films. I am really proud of both the films, and enjoyed making them. Shimla Mirchi is a totally new experience for me. For the first time, I’m exploring a proper love story with a twist, and to get a chance to work with Ramesh (Sippy) Sir was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I will cherish it forever.

His passion and love for cinema has inspired me a lot. Aligarh is my second film with Hansal Sir, and working with him is like coming back to family. He understands me completely without even the need to speak anything. I can’t imagine myself not being part of any of his films. It’s a very different equation with Hansal Sir.

What other projects are in the pipeline?

Apart from Aligarh and Shimla Mirchi, I have finished Vikramaditya Motwane’s next film and then there is another film with Hansal Sir.

You are quite low key; don’t you think visibility is an important factor in showbiz?

It’s an important factor, but it’s not the most important factor. I want people to know me because of my work and not for how many parties I attend in a month.

When a film is offered to you, what’s your criterion for signing on the dotted line? Based on what factors do you green-light a project?

The most important factor is the content, and then of course, there are other aspects like who is backing the project and who’s directing it.

Do you have a dream role?