New Delhi | Aug 09, 2025 : Rajkummar Rao has never been one to fit into Bollywood’s boxes. Known for shifting seamlessly between genres — from supernatural comedies to thrillers, gangster dramas to rom-coms — the National Award-winning actor credits his “outsider” status for shaping the way he works.

“Not having a film background gave me the freedom to find my own voice,” he tells Hindustan Times. “There were no expectations to follow a set path. I’m proud of my journey and wouldn’t trade it for anything. It’s also kept me grounded.”

Rao, who made his debut with Love Sex Aur Dhokha, steadily built his career with smaller roles in Gangs of Wasseypur – Part 2 and Talaash, before delivering acclaimed performances in Kai Po Che, CityLights and Shahid. His recent projects include Stree, Maalik, Bhool Chuk Maaf, and Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video.

For him, picking diverse roles is a conscious choice to avoid typecasting. “I’ve always wanted to explore as many kinds of stories and characters as possible. Whether it’s something serious or lighthearted, I want to keep discovering new parts of myself as an actor. It keeps the work exciting and real.”

Balancing Art and Commerce
Striking a balance between artistic integrity and commercial success is something Rao navigates carefully. “It’s a balancing act, but I don’t think they always clash. Some of the most meaningful films I’ve done have also done well commercially. If your choices come from an honest place, they connect with people.”

For Rao, the formula is simple — do the work that matters to him and trust it will find its audience.

The Responsibility of Stardom
As his profile grows, Rao is conscious of the influence he wields, especially among younger audiences. This extends to the brands he chooses to endorse. Recently, he became the face of MR. DIY, a home improvement and lifestyle retailer.

“For me, endorsing a brand isn’t just business. It reflects who I am and what I stand for,” he says. “I look for something that adds value or speaks to people in a genuine way. I stay away from anything superficial or not aligned with how I live my life. If I don’t connect with it personally, I won’t promote it.”

He recalls turning down a lucrative endorsement deal because the message didn’t resonate with him. “It was tempting in terms of exposure and money, but I couldn’t stand behind it. At the end of the day, I have to be okay with my choices, even off screen.”

With fatherhood on the horizon, Rao’s priorities seem clearer than ever — stay true to his craft, choose projects that challenge him, and remain authentic both on and off the camera.