In the world of Bollywood, every film has its own unique journey, and so does the casting process. The 2019 film “Kabir Singh,” directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, was no exception. The intense drama starring Shahid Kapoor and Kiara Advani became a talking point not just for its storyline, but also for its portrayal of complex and, at times, controversial characters. Recently, Rajkummar Rao, known for his versatile acting skills, shared his thoughts on the film and what he would have done differently if he were in Shahid Kapoor’s shoes. This revelation came during the promotional event of his upcoming film “Stree 2,” a sequel to the 2018 horror-comedy hit “Stree.”
The Casting Journey of Kabir Singh
Casting for “Kabir Singh” was a challenge from the start. Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga initially approached Ranveer Singh for the titular role. However, the actor turned down the offer, citing the film’s dark themes as a reason. Ranveer Singh’s refusal paved the way for Shahid Kapoor, who embraced the role with his characteristic intensity. Shahid Kapoor’s portrayal of Kabir Singh, an ‘unlikeable guy’ with a complex personality, received a mix of critical acclaim and controversy. The film’s intense scenes, especially one involving a slap, became a focal point of discussion and debate.
Rajkummar Rao’s Perspective
Rajkummar Rao, known for his nuanced performances, recently shared his thoughts on the controversial scene from “Kabir Singh” during an exclusive interview at HT City’s “Stars In the City” on August 13. Rao admitted that playing such a scene, particularly one involving slapping a female character, would be a challenging task for him. He stated, “Actually, it would be very hard for me to slap a girl in a scene. I wouldn’t be able to do it.” This candid revelation highlights Rao’s sensitivity towards handling complex and potentially controversial scenes in films.
Would He Have Taken on Kabir Singh?
When asked if he would have accepted the role of Kabir Singh, Rajkummar Rao reflected on the process he would have undergone. He explained that he would have engaged in extensive discussions with the director about the portrayal of such intense scenes. Rao noted, “Yeah, maybe I would have had a lot of discussions with my director about this scene. Unless it’s like something which you cannot CANNOT live without, you know your character just cannot live without, it’s like breathing that has to be there… I would get into a big debate with my director.” This approach underscores Rao’s commitment to understanding and exploring the depths of his characters while also respecting his own boundaries.
The Appeal of Playing Grey Characters
While Rajkummar Rao expressed reservations about performing scenes with physical violence, he remains open to exploring grey characters onscreen. His willingness to tackle complex roles aligns with his reputation for taking on diverse and challenging characters. Fans of Rajkummar Rao eagerly anticipate seeing him step into a role that demands moral ambiguity and depth. His versatility as an actor makes him an ideal candidate for such roles, and his openness to experimentation continues to endear him to audiences.
Stree 2: The Current Focus
Currently, Rajkummar Rao is engrossed in the promotions for his highly anticipated film “Stree 2,” set to release on August 15. The sequel to the successful 2018 horror-comedy “Stree” brings back the beloved character of Vicky, played by Rao, alongside Shraddha Kapoor. The film also features a stellar ensemble cast including Pankaj Tripathi, Aparshakti Khurana, and Abhishek Banerjee. “Stree 2” promises to deliver a fresh dose of horror-comedy, continuing the legacy of its predecessor while offering new thrills and laughs to audiences.
Rajkummar Rao’s insights into the casting and portrayal of challenging roles offer a glimpse into the complexities of film acting and character development. His thoughtful approach to controversial scenes, coupled with his readiness to embrace grey characters, showcases his dedication to his craft. As fans eagerly await the release of “Stree 2,” Rajkummar Rao’s reflections on “Kabir Singh” and his current projects highlight the evolving nature of Bollywood cinema and the actors who navigate its intricate landscape.
