Why does Rajkummar Rao prefer films like ‘Shahid’, ‘Maalik’, and ‘Newton’?

Synopsis
Rajkummar Rao, the celebrated National Award-winner, shares his insights into why he favors films like 'Shahid', 'Maalik', and 'Newton' over dance-centric roles. Discover his passion for impactful storytelling and the unique depth these films offer.
Key Takeaways
- Rajkummar Rao values impactful storytelling.
- He prefers roles that offer depth and challenge.
- 'Maalik' showcases a new side of his acting skills.
- His choice of films reflects a commitment to meaningful cinema.
- Upcoming projects promise to excite fans.
Mumbai, May 30 (NationPress) Despite dancing to popular tracks like “Aayi Nai,” “Na Na Na Na Re,” and “Chor Bazari Phir Se,” National Award-winning actor Rajkummar Rao emphasizes his preference for profound roles over those focused on dance, cherishing films such as Shahid, Maalik, and Newton for their unique depth.
When asked about his choice between a dancing Rajkummar or the one who has starred in films like Shahid and Maalik, Rajkummar stated to IANS: “I’ll choose Shahid, Maalik, and Newton of the world because I can dance at a party too, make a video and upload it.”
He further noted: “But opportunities like these don’t come easily.”
Rajkummar’s action-drama “Maalik” has seen a delay, previously set for a June 20 release, now rescheduled for July 11, 2025.
In this film, currently in post-production, Rao portrays a fierce gangster, promising a portrayal that showcases a new side of him, adding an intriguing aspect to the movie.
Directed by Pulkit, “Maalik” is produced by Kumar Taurani under the Tips Films banner alongside Jay Shewakramani's Northern Lights Films.
Discussing Shahid and Newton, the former, released in 2012, is a biographical drama directed by Hansal Mehta, based on the life of human rights lawyer Shahid Azmi, who was murdered in 2010. Rajkummar stars as Azmi, with Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Prabhleen Sandhu, and Baljinder Kaur in supporting roles.
Meanwhile, Newton, released in 2017, is a black comedy-drama directed by Amit V. Masurkar, featuring Rajkummar in the lead role as a government official assigned to a politically sensitive region in central India for election duties. Pankaj Tripathi, Anjali Patil, and Raghubir Yadav play significant roles.