Rajkummar Rao, acclaimed for his versatile performances in Indian cinema, has shared his favourite time loop movie, revealing his personal cinematic tastes while promoting his upcoming film. Speaking shortly before the release of his latest project, Rajkummar Rao offered insights into his early career, the significance of time loop narratives in his work, and how they intertwine with his own creative process.
Rajkummar Rao’s debut in the entertainment world dates back to his first year as a student at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), when he featured in Sona Mohapatra’s music video ‘Aaja Ve’. The experience was both thrilling and formative, as the young actor played a strict school master in a lively rural setting. Alongside him were his batchmates, including notable actors Vijay Varma and Jaideep Ahlawat, who appeared as a barber and a sadhu, respectively. Rajkummar Rao recalls the sense of excitement and camaraderie that swept through the class when a senior, Deepti, invited them to participate in the project.
he remembered fondly.
This early collaboration set the stage for Rajkummar Rao’s ascent in the film industry. After his graduation, he made a significant mark with his role in Dibakar Banerjee’s ‘Love Sex Aur Dhokha’ in 2010, followed by performances in films such as ‘Ragini MMS’, ‘Shaitan’, ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’, and ‘Talaash’. His portrayal in Hansal Mehta’s 2012 film ‘Shahid’ finally earned him widespread recognition, along with a National Award for Best Actor.
Over the years, Rajkummar Rao’s performances in acclaimed films like ‘Aligarh’, ‘Bareilly Ki Barfi’, ‘Trapped’, ‘Newton’, ‘Badhaai Do’, and the ‘Stree’ franchise have solidified his position as one of India’s most compelling actors. Despite this success, he reflects,
His upcoming film, the romantic comedy ‘Bhool Chuk Maaf’, sees Rajkummar Rao in the role of Ranjan, a man caught in a time loop on the morning of his haldi ceremony in Varanasi. The film, directed by Karan Sharma and co-starring Wamiqa Gabbi, was originally scheduled for a theatrical release but will now premiere on Prime Video on May 16 due to security concerns in the country.
Discussing ‘Bhool Chuk Maaf’, Rajkummar Rao expressed enthusiasm for both the story and the experience it offers audiences.
he explained. The film’s unconventional premise has prompted questions about Rajkummar Rao’s own experience with time loops, both in the movies he enjoys and in his process as an actor.
When asked about his favourite time loop movie, Rajkummar Rao did not hesitate to name the Hollywood classic ‘Groundhog Day’, starring Bill Murray in 1993. Its blend of comedy, emotional depth, and life lessons set a standard that he admires.
he said.
Reflecting with playful introspection, Rajkummar Rao considered which movie he would choose if he were ever stuck in a time loop himself. Opting for lightheartedness to endure repetition, he said,
This Hindi comedy classic, known for its satirical humor, aligns with his preference for films that bring both laughter and a subtle message.
On the subject of time loops in the context of acting, Rajkummar Rao explained how performing multiple takes can resemble a looping experience, but his aim is always to bring novelty to every shot.
he clarified. Maintaining freshness, even through repetition, is crucial to his craft.
he added.
Rajkummar Rao’s portrayal of everyday individuals has resonated strongly with audiences, earning him not only critical acclaim but also a deep-seated connection with fans who see reflections of themselves in his characters. Describing this response, he offered,
While he embraces this identification, Rajkummar Rao is also keen to avoid being typecast. Experimentation and growth as an artist are important to him, as he looks for projects that challenge expectations.
he said.
His forthcoming release, ‘Maalik’, arriving in theatres in July, is especially noteworthy as it marks Rajkummar Rao’s first foray into the action genre.
he shared enthusiastically.
The highly anticipated digital release of ‘Bhool Chuk Maaf’, produced by Maddock Films, is expected to reach a broad audience online. The decision to move the premiere to a streaming platform was made in response to heightened security measures across India, ensuring both audience safety and widespread accessibility.
As Rajkummar Rao continues to bring new perspectives to Indian cinema, his ability to relate time loop narratives to both his on-screen and off-screen experiences reflects a thoughtful and dynamic approach to storytelling. By sharing his favourite time loop movie and his willingness to embrace variety in his roles, Rajkummar Rao inspires both peers and fans, suggesting that reinvention and authenticity go hand in hand. The release of his new projects signals exciting times ahead, as viewers eagerly await to see how he will surprise them next, both within and beyond any cinematic loop.
