In a candid conversation, actor Rajkummar Rao recently opened up about a lesser-known chapter from his early days in the film industry. Speaking about his initial involvement in Anurag Kashyap’s cult classic Gangs of Wasseypur, Rao admitted that he felt “bad” when his role in the film was significantly reduced during the final cut.
A Disappointing Turn
Rajkummar revealed that he had initially shot for a more substantial role in Gangs of Wasseypur, a film now hailed as one of the most influential Indian films of the last two decades. However, due to budget constraints and the logistical limitations of independent filmmaking at the time, much of his footage never made it to the final release.
“I felt bad when my scenes were reduced,” Rajkummar confessed. “But at that time, nobody really had the money. We were all trying to make things work. I was a newcomer, and I understood that the film had to take shape in the edit room.”
Gangs of Wasseypur: A Game-Changer
Directed by Anurag Kashyap, Gangs of Wasseypur released in two parts in 2012 and went on to become a defining moment in Indian cinema. The film introduced a raw, gritty style of storytelling that was both unconventional and deeply impactful. It launched or elevated the careers of many actors like Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Huma Qureshi, Pankaj Tripathi, and Jaideep Ahlawat — while Rajkummar Rao was left with only a brief appearance.
No Hard Feelings
Despite the initial disappointment, Rajkummar emphasized that he holds no grudge against Anurag Kashyap. “He’s someone I deeply respect. I learned a lot during that shoot. It was one of those moments where you realize that filmmaking is also about compromise and practicality.”
Rao has since gone on to star in critically acclaimed films like Shahid, Newton, Trapped, Stree, and Badhaai Do, becoming one of India’s most versatile and dependable actors.
The Journey Since
Looking back, Rajkummar views that phase as part of his learning curve. “Every setback teaches you something. Maybe if I had more screen time in Wasseypur, things would’ve turned out differently. But I believe everything happens for a reason.”
With upcoming films like the Sourav Ganguly biopic and a number of OTT projects in the pipeline, Rao continues to prove that talent and persistence always find their place — even if the journey starts with a few cut scenes.
Final Thoughts
Rajkummar Rao’s honesty is a refreshing reminder of how real struggles, humble beginnings, and resilience shape the artists we admire today. His reflection on Gangs of Wasseypur isn’t just about lost screen time — it’s about staying the course even when the camera isn’t rolling in your favor.
Stay tuned to BarefootMonk.com for more behind-the-scenes stories, interviews, and film insights.
