National Award-winning actor Rajkummar Rao is known for seamlessly slipping into a wide array of roles, ranging from intense dramas to quirky comedies. However, with his upcoming film Maalik, the versatile actor is set to explore uncharted territory. Speaking about the project, Rao shared that this film marks his entry into a completely new genre, one that challenges him both as an actor and a storyteller.
“It’s a very new genre for me,” Rao revealed during a recent media interaction. “I’m really looking forward to how audiences react to it, because it’s unlike anything I’ve done before.” The actor, who has built his reputation on strong performances in films like Newton, Stree, and Shahid, added that Maalik has given him an opportunity to break out of familiar molds and experiment with unexplored narrative styles.
While details about the plot of Maalik are being kept tightly under wraps, industry insiders have hinted that the film could fall within the psychological thriller or supernatural mystery space. If true, this would be a significant shift for Rao, whose recent work has primarily focused on social dramas and romantic comedies.
Rao explained that it was the script that drew him to the project. “When I first heard the story, I was hooked. The way the narrative unfolds, the tension, the emotional depth — it was all so gripping. It’s not just entertainment; it also poses questions that stay with you long after the film ends.”
Directed by a relatively new but promising filmmaker, Maalik is reportedly a character-driven story that delves deep into the psyche of its protagonist. Rao’s role is said to be layered, intense, and emotionally demanding — a perfect match for the actor’s nuanced approach to his craft.
Speaking about the preparation that went into the role, Rao said, “This isn’t the kind of film where you just show up on set and deliver your lines. I had to go through a lot of internal work — reading, researching, even meditating on certain aspects of the character’s life. It was exhausting but extremely fulfilling.”
The film’s production is currently in its final stages, and the team is eyeing a release in the second half of 2025. According to those close to the project, Maalik is being shot on a tight, atmospheric set designed to heighten the tension and immerse audiences in the world of the story. The film will also feature a hauntingly beautiful score and sharp cinematography to complement its tone.
Fans of Rajkummar Rao have already expressed excitement over this new avatar of the actor. Social media is abuzz with speculation about the storyline, with many expecting Maalik to follow in the footsteps of acclaimed thrillers that blend thought-provoking content with gripping suspense.
In closing, Rao said, “As an actor, I never want to stop evolving. Maalik is a step in that direction — it’s a risk, but it’s one I’m proud to take. I hope the audience will come on this journey with me.”
With his dedication, sharp instincts, and ever-growing repertoire, Rajkummar Rao’s Maalik is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated films of the year — not just for its intriguing concept, but also for offering a chance to see one of India’s finest actors push his boundaries once again.
