As we celebrate the birthday of Rajkummar Rao, one of Bollywood’s most talented and versatile actors, it’s the perfect time to reflect on some of his most iconic films. With a career marked by diverse roles and outstanding performances, Rao has consistently impressed audiences and critics alike. Here’s a look at some of his must-watch films that showcase his incredible range and acting prowess.
Shahid (2013)
In this biographical drama, Rajkummar Rao delivers a career-defining performance as Shahid Azmi, a human rights lawyer who fought for justice despite personal struggles and a troubled past. Rao’s portrayal of Azmi is both haunting and inspiring, earning him the National Film Award for Best Actor. This film is a testament to his ability to immerse himself completely in his roles.
Kai Po Che! (2013)
The movie is an adaption of “The 3 Mistakes of My Life” by Chetan Bhagat, and it centres on three friends who establish a cricket academy in Gujarat amid political and religious unrest. The subtle and powerful portrayal of the aspirational and pragmatic Govind by Rajkumar Rao. Rao’s outstanding performance adds to the film’s study of friendship, ambition, and societal concerns.
City Lights (2014)
The movie is about Deepak Singh, a poor Rajasthani farmer who, after moving to Mumbai with his family in hopes of a better life, is forced to deal with harsh reality. Rajkumar Rao’s poignant portrayal of a struggling immigrant demonstrates his capacity to emote powerfully. The film is affecting to see because of Rao’s strong performance and its realistic depiction of urban poverty.
Aligarh (2015)
The film centres on a journalist who attempts to expose the actual tale of Dr. Shrinivas Ramchandra Siras, a professor at Aligarh Muslim University who was suspended due to his sexual orientation. The depiction of journalist Deepu Sebastian by Rajkumar Rao is integral to the story, even though Manoj Bajpayee plays the main role.
Trapped (2016)
This survival thriller showcases Rao’s extraordinary talent. Playing a man who gets trapped in his own apartment, Rao delivers a gripping performance that holds the audience’s attention throughout. His ability to convey a wide range of emotions while being virtually alone on screen is a testament to his acting skills.
Newton (2017)
The movie centres on Newton Kumar, a government clerk assigned to a central Indian town under Naxal rule for election work. Many people praised Rajkummar Rao for his portrayal of the sincere and idealistic Newton. Rao’s outstanding performance and the movie’s satirical portrayal of the voting process make it both enjoyable and thought-provoking.
Bareilly Ki Barfi (2017)
A free-spirited girl named Bitti is searching for the author of a book that speaks to her life, and the film is a romantic comedy about her journey. Rao’s portrayal of Pritam is a standout aspect of the film. As a local printer with aspirations of becoming a writer, Pritam is a character filled with endearing quirks and vulnerabilities. Rao captures the essence of Pritam’s ambitions and insecurities with a perfect blend of comedy and sincerity. His performance brings depth to the character, making Pritam both relatable and lovable. Rao’s performance in Bareilly Ki Barfi is a testament to his versatility as an actor. He skillfully balances the comedic elements with the character’s more vulnerable moments, contributing significantly to the film’s charm and appeal. His portrayal of Pritam Vidrohi adds a unique flavor to the film, making it a delightful watch and further establishing Rao as a talented and versatile actor in Bollywood.
Omerta (2017)
In Omerta (2017), Rajkummar Rao delivers a chilling and compelling performance as Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, a real-life terrorist involved in the 1994 kidnapping of Westerners in India and the 9/11 attacks in the United States. Directed by Hansal Mehta, the film is a stark departure from the actor’s typical roles, showcasing his ability to delve into dark and complex characters.Rao’s portrayal of Sheikh is both intense and unsettling. He immerses himself in the role, capturing the psychological complexity and ruthless nature of his character. Rao’s performance is marked by a meticulous attention to detail and a profound understanding of the character’s motivations and mindset.Rao’s work in Omerta demonstrates his exceptional range as an actor. The film’s dark subject matter and his intense performance highlight his ability to take on challenging roles and bring them to life with authenticity and depth. His portrayal of Sheikh stands as a testament to his versatility and commitment to his craft, adding another significant achievement to his already impressive filmography.
Stree and Stree 2 (2018-2024)
Based on an urban legend of men being abducted at night by a spirit known as Stree, the movie is a horror-comedy. Vicky, a tailor played by Rajkumar Rao, works with his pals to try and solve the mystery around Stree. It’s a pleasure to watch Rao play the courageous and innocent Vicky. Rao’s captivating performance and the way the picture combines humour and terror. Rao’s performance in this sequel continues to showcase his exceptional talent, blending humor, charm, and depth.
Rao seamlessly steps back into Vicky’s shoes, maintaining the character’s endearing qualities while also bringing new dimensions to his role. His comedic timing is impeccable, effortlessly balancing the film’s horror elements with humor. Vicky’s interactions with the other characters and his reactions to the ongoing supernatural occurrences are delivered with the same engaging charisma that made him a standout in the first film. The sequel allows Rao to explore Vicky’s character further, delving into the aftermath of the events from the original Stree. His portrayal reflects a mix of growth and consistency, as Vicky navigates the new challenges that come with the return of the ghostly presence. Rao’s ability to blend comedic and dramatic elements enriches the film, making his performance both entertaining and memorable.
By Parismita Kaur
