Rajkummar Rao recently shared that his role in Anurag Kashyap’s acclaimed “Gangs of Wasseypur” was drastically reduced from its original, much larger concept.
An Unexpected Script Change
The celebrated actor, while promoting his latest film “Maalik,” opened up about his experience with the cult classic. Rajkummar revealed that when director Anurag Kashyap first approached him, the story was intended to revolve primarily around his character and Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s.
He expressed significant excitement at the prospect of playing a parallel lead in such a high-profile project. At the time, Rajkummar had not been working much, making the offer even more appealing for his career trajectory.
The Wasseypur Journey Begins
Rajkummar detailed the intense preparation he undertook for the film. He and Nawazuddin Siddiqui traveled to Wasseypur, immersing themselves in the local culture to better understand their characters and the film’s backdrop.
He even used a recorder to capture local accents, which he would later practice. This dedication highlights the actors’ commitment to delivering authentic performances.
A Sudden Revelation from Anurag Kashyap
However, the script took an unexpected turn. Rajkummar recalled a day when Anurag Kashyap called him to the office to discuss the revised script. It was then that Kashyap candidly told him, “The script is here, but you don’t have much of a role left.”
Understandably, Rajkummar felt disappointed, especially after all the preparation and effort he had invested. Despite the setback, his passion for working with Anurag Kashyap remained strong.
Choosing Dedication Over Disappointment
Despite the significant reduction in his screen time, Rajkummar made the decision to stay on board. He told Kashyap that he still wanted to be a part of the film, regardless of the size of his role.
Looking back, Rajkummar stated he is glad he made that choice. His impactful portrayal of Shamshad, even in a brief appearance, left a memorable impression amidst a star-studded cast.
Key Takeaways from Rajkummar Rao’s Revelation
- Rajkummar Rao was initially slated for a central role in “Gangs of Wasseypur” alongside Nawazuddin Siddiqui.
- The film’s script evolved, leading to a much smaller role for his character.
- Despite the reduction, Rao chose to remain in the project out of his desire to work with Anurag Kashyap.
- He undertook extensive on-ground research, including traveling to Wasseypur, to prepare for his part.
Rajkummar continues to deliver diverse performances, with his latest film “Maalik,” directed by Pulkit, having recently released on July 11.
