Rajkummar Rao Calls Kangana Ranaut ‘The Biggest Star’ in Bollywood
In an industry as competitive and dynamic as Bollywood, it’s rare for an actor to openly acknowledge the stardom of their peers. Yet, Rajkummar Rao, known for his versatile performances and humble persona, has done just that. In a candid conversation with Neha Dhupia, the actor praised Kangana Ranaut as the biggest star in the Bollywood industry. This unexpected yet genuine compliment has been a topic of conversation ever since it resurfaced during the promotional period of the upcoming film Emergency. This article dives into their dynamic, the films they’ve worked on together, and the influence of such public acknowledgments in Bollywood.
Rajkummar Rao’s Tribute to Kangana Ranaut: ‘The Biggest Star’
The exchange between Rajkummar Rao and Neha Dhupia occurred during a lighthearted interview, but the moment quickly turned profound. When asked who he believed was the biggest star in Bollywood, Rajkummar didn’t hesitate to name Kangana Ranaut. His immediate and unequivocal response stunned many, given the nature of Bollywood’s highly competitive environment, where actors rarely admit to the dominance of their peers, especially in such a direct manner.
Rajkummar’s statement holds weight, not only due to the respect he commands in the industry but also because it signifies a deeper recognition of Kangana’s impact on the film industry. For Rajkummar, an actor who has made his mark in an array of genres, acknowledging Kangana as the biggest star is a testament to her exceptional range, talent, and resilience in the face of personal and professional challenges.
The Response: A Gesture of Respect
Following Rajkummar’s comment, Neha Dhupia, with her characteristic wit, responded by playfully offering Rajkummar her golden rings. Rajkummar, however, humbly declined, stating, “I don’t need these.” His response was not just modest but underscored his genuine humility, a quality that makes Rajkummar not just a successful actor but also a respected figure in Bollywood.
This exchange gained renewed attention as it resurfaced on social media, coinciding with the release of the trailer for Emergency, the film in which Rajkummar and Kangana will once again share screen space. The playful yet profound exchange between Rajkummar and Neha quickly became a viral moment, sparking renewed discussions about the camaraderie between the two stars.
Kangana and Rajkummar’s Filmography Together: A Cinematic Journey
Rajkummar Rao and Kangana Ranaut have shared screen space in some of Bollywood’s most memorable films, and their on-screen chemistry has undoubtedly played a role in their continued success. Their most notable collaborations include Queen (2014) and Judgementall Hai Kya (2019). Both films not only showcased their acting prowess but also highlighted the unique dynamics between their characters.
Queen: A Game-Changer for Kangana and Rajkummar
Released in 2014, Queen was a landmark film for Kangana, propelling her into the ranks of Bollywood’s most talented and versatile actresses. Rajkummar’s portrayal of Vijay, the somewhat self-centered fiancé who ditches his bride-to-be, added emotional depth to the narrative. Their performances were lauded for their authenticity and emotional range. In many ways, Queen was a turning point for both actors, solidifying Kangana’s reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the industry and demonstrating Rajkummar’s ability to adapt to a wide range of roles.
Judgementall Hai Kya: A Dark Comedy with Unforgettable Performances
In Judgementall Hai Kya, released in 2019, Rajkummar and Kangana reunited for a thrilling dark comedy. The film, which explored the complex dynamics of mental health and perceptions of reality, saw both actors deliver performances that were equally disturbing and captivating. Kangana’s portrayal of Bobby, a woman struggling with mental health issues, was hailed as one of her finest performances, while Rajkummar’s character, Keshav, stood as a testament to his ability to embody any role with subtlety and depth.
Their collaboration in Judgementall Hai Kya allowed both actors to push their boundaries, and the film became a hit with audiences for its daring storytelling and exceptional performances. While the film explored heavy themes, the actors’ chemistry and nuanced portrayals of flawed characters added a unique layer to the story, making it one of the more memorable dark comedies in recent Bollywood history.
Upcoming Film: Emergency
Kangana Ranaut’s upcoming project, Emergency, has generated significant buzz in the industry. The film, which is set in the tumultuous political era of 1975, will see Kangana portray Indira Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India. The movie’s trailer has already been released, and it has sparked discussions not only for its historical significance but also for Kangana’s ambitious portrayal of one of India’s most influential political figures.
Rajkummar Rao, known for his ability to seamlessly blend into complex roles, will also be a part of this project, making it another significant collaboration between the two actors. Given their proven chemistry and individual acting credentials, Emergency is already shaping up to be a must-watch film. The trailer, which showcases the political unrest of the 1970s, promises a gripping and intense narrative. Rajkummar’s role in the film is still under wraps, but his involvement in such a high-stakes political drama only adds to the anticipation surrounding the film’s release.
A Stellar Cast and a Historical Narrative
Apart from Kangana and Rajkummar, Emergency boasts an ensemble cast that includes Anupam Kher, Shreyas Talpade, Milind Soman, and Mahima Chaudhry, among others. The historical backdrop of the film, set during the Emergency period in India, offers a rich and layered narrative, providing the actors with the opportunity to delve into complex roles rooted in real historical events. The film will undoubtedly attract viewers interested in political dramas, historical retellings, and powerful performances by its stellar cast.
Rajkummar Rao’s Recent Projects: A Testament to Versatility
Rajkummar Rao, who is often hailed as one of the most versatile actors in contemporary Bollywood, has continued to impress audiences with his recent film choices. His last major release, Vicky and Vidya ka Woh Wala Video, a comedy film, received critical acclaim for its humor and Rajkummar’s impeccable timing.
Prior to that, he appeared in the highly successful Stree 2, a horror-comedy that became a box-office hit. The film, which featured an ensemble cast including Shraddha Kapoor, Pankaj Tripathi, Abhishek Banerjee, and Aparshakti Khurana, was lauded for its engaging narrative and the chemistry between the cast members. Rajkummar’s role in Stree 2 showcased his ability to adapt to different genres while still delivering memorable performances.
