Rajkummar Rao on rise to stardom: “I want every year to be mine”

Rajkummar Rao who has made his mark in cinema doing unconventional films, has had a successful few years with films such as ‘Omerta’ (2017) and more recently ‘Stree’ (2018) and says he would like the trend to continue every year.

Reported on DNA India, Rao who was at a promotional event for his next ‘Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga’ shared that was glad that he is being noticed as an actor by critics and audiences alike for his performances, adding to his rise in stardom and popularity. “I want every year to be mine, every year should be of cinema. I am overwhelmed. I am happy where cinema is going, people are enjoying watching films and they are spending hard earned money and watching it,” says the ‘Newton’ (2017) actor.

Asked about his thoughts on films featuring the superstars not faring well at the box office, Rao said they can’t be written off and still has immense respect for them. “They are superstars nobody can touch them and there is a reason they are superstars. They are ruling for 30 years. Just because one or two films did not work, I still love them. I have respect for them.” However, added that content has become more important over the years, “Content is above everything. The story has to be an important aspect of filmmaking. People are writing good stories and characters. Also, actors are playing characters, they are working hard. It is a welcome change,” explained Rao.

With ‘Stree’ (2018) picking up awards at the Star Screen Awards 2018, Rao was extremely happy with the recognition it has received. “We are happy the film is getting a lot of recognition. We had lot of fun making it. It is translating into awards now. It is great time for cinema.”

On the subject of ‘Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga’ which also stars Anil Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor and Juhi Chawla, Rao revealed why he said yes to the film, “I was very moved, it is a fine script. It is a special film. It is a family film. It is very entertaining and I said yes to it.”

This will be the second time that Rao will work with Kapoor since ‘Fanney Khan’ (2018), the actor says he has learnt a lot from him, “He is a student of cinema, his dedication to work is unmatchable. I have immense respect for him and I learn a lot from him.”

‘Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga’ is being directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra and Rajkumar Hirani, and the film is slated to release on the 1st February 2019.