Rajkummar Rao Addresses Fan Concern About Political Content in Film Choices

In a recent social media exchange that has garnered significant attention, acclaimed actor Rajkummar Rao reaffirmed his commitment to authentic storytelling while responding to fan comments about his upcoming biopic “Nikam.”

The National Award-winning actor shared details of his physical transformation for his portrayal of celebrated public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam, revealing a comprehensive approach that included intentional hair thinning and substantial weight gain to achieve a realistic resemblance to his real-life counterpart.

“For Nikam, I gained around 9-10 kilograms, embraced a thinner hairline, and avoided prosthetics wherever possible,” Rao explained in his Instagram post. The actor drew parallels to his meticulous preparation for previous roles in films like “Bose,” “Trapped,” and “Srikanth,” emphasizing that physical transformation remains central to his acting methodology.

“My being is through my art,” wrote Rao, a statement that resonated with his followers and industry peers who flooded the comments section with praise for his dedication to craft.

Among the responses, one comment stood out and has since sparked wider discussion. A fan politely requested: “Please do not do propaganda films sir,” accompanied by a folded hands emoji. Rao’s unambiguous one-word reply—”NEVER”—has been interpreted as a clear stance on maintaining artistic integrity in his choice of projects.

The exchange comes at a time when Indian cinema is experiencing heightened scrutiny regarding political messaging in mainstream films. Several recent releases have faced criticism from certain segments of viewers who perceive them as politically motivated or propagandistic. The spy thriller “Dhurandhar,” starring Ranveer Singh, is among the productions that have sparked debates about representation and narrative framing in contemporary Indian storytelling.

Industry analysts note that these conversations reflect broader tensions in India’s cultural landscape, where entertainment increasingly intersects with political discourse. “Actors are becoming more conscious about how their work might be perceived in today’s polarized environment,” explained film critic Rajiv Menon. “Rao’s response signals awareness of these dynamics while asserting his artistic priorities.”

Rao’s upcoming film “Nikam,” directed by critically acclaimed filmmaker Avinash Arun and produced by Maddock Films, chronicles some of the most significant cases handled by Ujjwal Nikam during his storied career as a prosecutor. These include the 1993 Bombay blasts and the 2008 Mumbai train attacks—events that profoundly shaped India’s legal and security frameworks.

The biopic is slated for release later in 2026 and joins a growing trend of films focused on legal professionals who have played pivotal roles in high-profile national cases. Industry observers suggest this reflects audience appetite for content that explores India’s judicial system and the individuals who navigate its complexities.

Meanwhile, Rao is already preparing for his next major undertaking—portraying former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly in a biopic directed by Vikramaditya Motwane. The project, expected to begin production in early 2026, will add another biographical portrayal to Rao’s increasingly diverse filmography.

Known for his versatility and commitment to challenging roles, Rao has established himself as one of the most respected actors in contemporary Indian cinema. His approach to “Nikam” reaffirms the methodology that has earned him critical acclaim throughout his career—immersive preparation and physical transformation in service of authentic characterization.

As the film industry continues to navigate the complex relationship between entertainment and social commentary, Rao’s exchange with his fan highlights the increasing importance artists place on clarifying their creative intentions to audiences increasingly attuned to the political dimensions of cultural production.