Rajkummar Rao early life and education
Rajkummar Rao, born Rajkumar Yadav on August 31, 1984, in Gurgaon, Haryana, comes from a humble background. He was passionate about acting from a young age, participating in school plays and local theatre. His commitment to his craft led him to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree from Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College, Delhi University. While in Delhi, he actively engaged in theatre with the Kshitij Repertory and the Shri Ram Centre for Performing Arts.
Recognizing the need for formal training, Rao joined the prestigious Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune, graduating in 2008. This education not only honed his acting skills but also provided him with a deep understanding of the nuances of filmmaking.
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Rajkummar Rao entry to Bollywood
Rao’s entry into Bollywood was not a fairy tale. Like many aspiring actors, he faced numerous rejections and struggled to find substantial roles. His persistence paid off in 2010 when he landed a role in Dibakar Banerjee’s “Love Sex Aur Dhokha.” This film, although unconventional, showcased his talent and marked his presence in the industry.
His breakthrough came with the film “Kai Po Che!” in 2013, where he played the role of Govind. The movie was a commercial and critical success, and Rao’s performance was widely appreciated. This role opened doors to more significant opportunities, establishing him as a promising actor in Bollywood. This film made nearly ₹80 crore worldwide on a ₹30 crore budget.
Rajkummar Rao: Rise to Stardom and blockbusters
Rajkummar Rao’s career trajectory is a testament to his versatility and dedication. Unlike many of his contemporaries, he didn’t limit himself to mainstream commercial cinema. Instead, he chose roles that challenged him as an actor and showcased his range.
“Shahid” (2012): Rao’s portrayal of lawyer and human rights activist Shahid Azmi earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor. The film was a critical success and cemented his reputation as a serious actor.
“Queen” (2013): Playing the role of Rani’s (Kangana Ranaut) fiancé, Rao’s performance added depth to the narrative. His ability to take on a supporting role and still leave a mark demonstrated his range. The film made ₹95 crore worldwide on a ₹23 crore budget.
“Bareilly Ki Barfi” (2017): As Pritam Vidrohi, Rao showcased his comedic talent, earning widespread acclaim and several awards. His transformation from a timid salesman to a confident man was both hilarious and heartwarming. The film made almost ₹60 crore worldwide on a ₹20 crore budget.
“Stree” (2018): This horror-comedy became a massive hit, with Rao’s portrayal of Vicky earning accolades. The film’s success proved his ability to lead a commercial movie while delivering a strong performance. The film made ₹180 crore worldwide on a ₹25 crore budget.
“The White Tiger” (2021): Based on Aravind Adiga’s novel, the film featured Rao as Ashok, a character caught between morality and ambition. His performance was lauded internationally, further establishing his global presence. It went on to become one of the most watched movies on Netflix.
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Rajkummar Rao investments and net worth
Rajkummar Rao’s impressive career has significantly boosted his financial standing. According to Financial Express, his net worth is estimated to be around ₹81 crore. He reportedly charges ₹6 crore per film and earns approximately ₹1-2 crore for brand endorsements.
Rao is known for his smart investment choices. He has invested in luxury properties, including a lavish apartment in Mumbai, reflecting his taste for finer things. He bought the triplex house for a whopping sum of ₹44 crore from Jahnvi Kapoor.
Additionally, he owns a collection of swanky cars, symbolising his success.
The National Film Award winner has a passion for automobiles, which is evident in his impressive garage, which houses a host of cars and bikes. Among his prized possessions are an Audi Q7 worth ₹80 lakh, a Mercedes Benz CLA 200 worth ₹37.96 lakh, and a luxurious Harley Davidson Fat Bob that sets him back a cool ₹18 lakh. The Stree 2 actor was recently gifted a brand new Yezdi Roadster bike by Jawa Yezdi itself.
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Rajkummar Rao brand endorsements
Rao’s rising popularity and relatable persona have made him a favourite among brands. He endorses several high-profile brands, including: Act II Popcorn, Syska LED: Titan Watches, Cred. His quirky and relatable advertisements have resonated well with the younger audience. He easily commands a few crores for each brand he endorses.
Conclusion
Rajkummar Rao’s journey from a theatre enthusiast in Gurgaon to one of Bollywood’s most bankable stars is a story of talent, perseverance, and smart choices. His diverse roles and consistent performances have not only earned him critical acclaim but also a loyal fan base. Rao’s ability to balance commercial and content-driven cinema sets him apart in the industry.
As he continues to take on challenging roles and expand his portfolio, Rao remains an inspiration for aspiring actors. His journey underscores the importance of dedication, continuous learning, and staying true to one’s craft. With several exciting projects in the pipeline, including the much-anticipated biopic “Srikanth,” Rajkummar Rao’s star is set to shine even brighter in the years to come.
