'Srikanth': Rajkummar Rao was initially unsure about visually impaired character
Rajkummar Rao is gearing up to add yet another illustrious performance to his name through his upcoming film Srikanth. He will essay the inspiring role of visionary industrialist Srikanth Bolla in the film. In an interview with PTI, Rao expressed his enthusiasm for challenging roles and revealed that each character he plays becomes his "dream role" at the time. He also shared his strategy for selecting roles and his ambition to take on more complex characters.
Rao's approach to challenging roles and future aspirations
Rao, known for his dedication to his craft, explained his approach to selecting roles. "I don't really plan. Whatever character, or film I'm doing at that moment, that's (becomes) my dream role," he said. "I'm sure there's much more ahead for me. Like, two-three years ago I didn't know that I would be able to do Srikanth, but it happened. (Today) There's more hunger in me as an actor, and there's more fire."
Rao's initial hesitation and excitement for 'Srikanth'
Rao confessed his initial apprehension about portraying a visually impaired character, a first in his career. He admitted to feeling both fear and excitement when tasked with the role of Bolla. "I love challenges. And, something that scares me excites me even more. Srikanth did that to me. I've never played a visually impaired man before. I didn't know if I would be able to do it. But that's the fun where you push yourself out of your comfort zone."
Who is Bolla? The real-life inspiration behind Rao's character
This project aims to portray the remarkable journey of Bolla, who was born with visual impairment but went on to establish his company in 2012 with financial backing from Ratan Tata. The firm is renowned for its production of "areca-based" goods and its commitment to hiring individuals with disabilities. Bolla also achieved academic excellence, becoming the first international blind student to attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the US.
Know more about the upcoming film
The film, directed by Tushar Hiranandani, is slated to hit theaters on May 10, aligning with Akshaya Tritiya. It is a joint venture between T-Series Films & Chalk N Cheese Films Production LLP, with the team comprising Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, and Nidhi Parmar Hiranandani. The project boasts a stellar cast featuring Jyotika, Alaya F, and Sharad Kelkar. Notably, the movie's release date was moved a week from its original May 17 schedule.
