Rajkummar Rao: Film with double role is in the offing

Rajkummar Rao

How can the same actor fit into every story of Dinesh Vijan's horror comedy universe? That was our first thought while watching the trailer of Rajkummar Rao's Roohi. So, we start our chat with the actor with the fundamental question: Which role will he be playing when the worlds of Stree and Roohi eventually converge in a film? "I was Vicky in Stree, and in Roohi, I play a character called Bhanwra. Dinoo's bigger plan is to have a film or two with both characters. So, it sounds like a double role is in the offing," he smiles.

Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor in Stree

The last few months have been exceptional for Rao. Oscillating between the affable Alu nurturing his unrequited love story in Ludo and the entitled US-returned Ashok in The White Tiger, the actor has continued to chase diverse roles and take risks. "Stree was a path-breaking film. So when Roohi came along, I knew I had to do it. We didn't expect Stree to fare as well as it did. As an actor, I never consciously take the pressure of delivering on commercials because I focus on my art. Films are not about formulas. I don't look for films where I am the lead. I read a script and think, ‘Do I want this in my filmography?' Ludo was an ensemble film. I am secure and never feel the need to replicate others' trajectory."

Rajkummar Rao and Janhvi Kapoor in Roohi

With digital entertainment booming in 2020 and giving bona fide actors Pratik Gandhi and Jaideep Ahlawat their share of the spotlight, the competition is no longer restricted to the likes of Ayushmann Khurrana and Vicky Kaushal. "When I see Scam or Pataal Lok, I wish I get to work with these great actors. Good actors inspire me. I did Bose in 2017 and know the investment required for a series. I shaved my head, gained 15 kilos and shot for 7 months. Playing Netaji was an honour for me. The audience now respects unique stories."

2020 is currently viewed as the year where the star system stood demolished. Ask Raj how he views the norm changing year and he says, "Superstar systems will stay - Hrithik, SRK, Salman, Akshay… the frenzy they have enjoyed is a reflection of a bygone era. The audience now respects unique stories. Content becoming the star was an industry we were all collectively working towards. The kind of cinema we are making now is rich. Writers are the written word getting its due. People are investing in creating better screenplays."

Meanwhile, The White Tiger has earned a place in the longlist across seven categories at the BAFTAs. Ask him if he is game for more international projects, and he says, "In many ways it was a debut for me. Cinema worldwide is more inclusive. Stories are culturally diverse and it's exciting to be working at a time like this. Netflix is very excited about the awards season. Some conversations are happening but that's premature. If an opportunity turns up, I will want to strike a balance like Priyanka [Chopra Jonas] and Irrfan sir. Hindi cinema is my karmabhoomi, so this will be my focus."