New Delhi: Rajkummar Rao, known for his versatility, is celebrated as one of the finest actors in the entertainment industry. He has won the National Award and captivated audiences with his seamless performances. As Rao turns 39 today, on August 31, let’s explore 7 must-watch movies that showcase his acting range. These films stand as a testament to his talent and leave a lasting impact on viewers’ hearts.

1. Kai Po Che

The Bollywood movie “Kai Po Che!”, based on Chetan Bhagat’s novel “The 3 Mistakes of My Life,” is considered a landmark film. Starring Rajkummar Rao, Amit Sadh, and the late Sushant Singh Rajput, it received love from both fans and critics. Rajkummar’s exceptional acting, along with the outstanding performances of the entire cast, left a lasting impact. The story revolves around three friends who face challenges while pursuing their dream of running a cricket academy amidst an earthquake, political instability, and communal tensions.

2. Shahid

Hansal Mehta’s film “Shahid” showcased Rajkummar Rao’s exceptional versatility in portraying the character of lawyer Shahid Azmi. The film depicted the tragic assassination of Shahid in 2010, which had a profound impact on the nation. To prepare for the role, Rajkummar spent time with Shahid’s family to deeply understand the character. His commitment and dedication paid off, as he received his first National Film Award and several Filmfare awards for his outstanding performance in the film.

3. Trapped

In Vikramaditya Motwane’s directorial, Rajkummar Rao pushed his boundaries to new limits, undergoing a remarkable physical transformation for his role. In the film, he portrayed a character trapped inside an apartment in an under-construction building, devoid of basic necessities like water, food, and electricity. Rajkummar Rao’s solo performance in the film showcased his acting prowess, and the filmmaker skillfully captured the gripping narrative, captivating audiences with the intense plot.

4. Stree

Rajkummar Rao’s acting in the movie “Stree” was a standout performance that showcased his versatility and comic timing. Playing the role of Vicky, he brilliantly balanced humor and fear, adding depth to the character. His chemistry with co-star Shraddha Kapoor was praised. “Stree” went on to become a massive hit, further solidifying Rao’s position as one of Bollywood’s most talented actors.

5. Badhaai Do

In the film “Badhaai Do,” Rajkummar Rao delivered a significant performance as Shardul Thakur, a gay police officer. The movie depicted Shardul’s internal struggle as he grappled with his sexual orientation, hiding it from his family and society. Rajkummar skillfully portrayed the complexities of the character, adding depth and authenticity to the role. This film further showcased his versatility and commitment to portraying diverse and challenging roles.

6. Gangs Of Wasseypur 2

In Anurag Kashyap’s iconic film, Rajkummar Rao portrayed Shamshad Alam, a small-time gangster with ambitious dreams. His character clashed with Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s character and met a tragic fate by the end. Despite his limited screen time, Rajkummar’s portrayal of Shamshad left a lasting impact, making his character the most memorable aspect of the film.

7. Citylights

Rajkummar Rao delivers a poignant performance in the film “CityLights”. In this emotional drama, he portrays Deepak Singh, a man who, along with his family, moves from a rural village to Mumbai in hopes of a brighter future. Rajkummar’s acting prowess shines through as he encapsulates the struggles, hopes, and dreams of his character, captivating the audience with his heartfelt portrayal in the film.