Rajkummar Rao is stepping into bold new territory with his gangster role in Maalik, an action thriller set in 1980s Allahabad, promising a raw story of ambition and survival. Speaking at the trailer launch, Rao expressed his enthusiasm for taking on this challenging character, bringing a fresh energy to his diverse filmography.
Rajkummar Rao Embraces a Complex Gangster Character
Rajkummar Rao, known for performances in acclaimed projects like Shahid, Newton, Stree, and Srikanth, highlighted how he actively seeks opportunities to shatter existing perceptions. He found such an opening in Maalik, where he portrays a gangster navigating the intense environment of 1980s Allahabad. The film, directed by Pulkit, renowned for Bhakshak (2024), delves into the harsh realities of power, loyalty, and ambition, exploring the high price characters pay for success in a turbulent world.
“There are very few instances when an actor gets the opportunity to break an image, and I’m always looking for such roles, like I did with Srikanth. As an actor, there’s always a hunger to do new and challenging roles. I’m glad Maalik came my way. I thoroughly enjoyed being part of it,”
—Rajkummar, Actor
The actor noted that taking on Maalik allowed him to break free from his familiar image, a move he finds professionally fulfilling. His positive outlook was evident as he connected the project to his ongoing quest for diverse and challenging roles.
Collaboration and Creative Vision Behind Maalik
Maalik marks the second collaboration between Rajkummar Rao and director Pulkit, following their previous work together in the series Bose: Dead/Alive in 2017. This renewed partnership brings renewed chemistry and creative energy to the film’s depiction of its period setting.
Rao stressed his trust in Pulkit’s direction and the importance of the world created through his script. He explained that while he prepared extensively, he drew much inspiration from the director’s writing, what he observed in television portrayals of gangsters, and his own process of acquiring the role’s distinctive body language and voice.
“It’s a commercial film, but with aesthetics, there’s realism as well, and there’s a lot of entertainment factor in it. People will see me in this avatar for the first time, and I’m looking forward to knowing the reaction of the people once the film releases.”
—Rajkummar, Actor
“It was all imagination, and the world that Pulkit created through his writing. Besides, whatever we’ve seen on TV, the inspiration (came) from real people, and quite a few things came from within, like you start getting the body language, voice, etc.”
—Rajkummar, Actor
“As long as the story and character are good, and it’s a well-made film, I don’t mind. As long as it is not uncomfortable, I’m a fan of the action genre.”
—Rajkummar, Actor
The action-packed narrative and period drama, enriched by “dialogue baazi” and a strong sense of atmosphere, has left Rao hopeful that audiences will connect with, and remember, his character from Maalik.
Notable Cast Members Bring Depth and Variety
Joining the ensemble are actors Manushi Chhillar, Saurabh Shukla, Saurabh Sachdeva, Prosenjit Chatterjee, and Swanand Kirkire, with each lending a unique perspective to the film. Prosenjit Chatterjee, celebrated for his roles in Mumbai-based productions like Shanghai and Jubilee, plays a police officer in the film. He emphasized his excitement about collaborating with Rajkummar and the talented Maalik team.
“I was not expecting something like Maalik. I got a call for this film, and I met the director, and I was amazed by his passion. Who would want to miss the opportunity of working with my younger brother (Rajkummar), who makes us proud as an actor! He is a big star. Also, I did not want to miss the opportunity to work with this team of actors,”
—Prosenjit Chatterjee, Actor
Rajkummar Rao reciprocated admiration for Prosenjit, affectionately known as Bumba Da, emphasizing the actor’s generosity and impact both on and off screen. He expressed excitement about audiences witnessing Prosenjit in a role quite different from his usual appearances.
“I’m glad he said yes to this role because it’s a character that not many people have seen him play. I’m excited for people to see him in this avatar. Bumba Da has added a tadka to his character, and that is beautiful.”
—Rajkummar, Actor
Manushi Chhillar Takes on a Transformative New Role
Manushi Chhillar, playing the role of Shalini—Rao’s love interest—described her gratitude for being chosen for a non-glamorous, challenging role. She reflected on the trust the director Pulkit placed in her, which allowed her to explore new facets of acting and collaborate with a seasoned cast and crew.
“I’ve not been an actor for a long time, but when you get to work with people who have shown the world how great they are, as a newcomer, you get to learn a lot. For me, Maalik was a very big learning experience. I got to explore a different side of my profession,”
—Manushi Chhillar, Actor
Chhillar, previously recognized for her roles in films like Samrat Prithviraj, The Great Indian Family, and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, acknowledged how working with Rajkummar Rao and the production team expanded her skills and provided valuable insights for her career as a newcomer.
Production Team and What’s Next for Maalik
Maalik is produced by Kumar Taurani’s Tips Films and Jay Shewakramani’s Northern Lights Films, organizations known for championing entertainer-driven projects. The support from these banners has provided the film with the resources to recreate the gritty underworld of 1980s Allahabad with authenticity and style.
With its combination of seasoned stars, emerging talent, and a director bringing his distinct vision to the action genre, Maalik is poised to offer audiences a dramatic exploration of ambition and morality. The anticipation surrounding the Rajkummar Rao gangster role in Maalik reflects both the actor’s personal investment and industry-wide interest.
As the film approaches release, its cast and crew await the public’s response, hopeful that Maalik’s blend of compelling storytelling, memorable characters, and strong performances will establish it as a new benchmark in period action dramas.
