I know what it feels like to be bro-zoned: Rajkummar Rao

One cannot forget Govind Patel of Kai Po Che (2013) or Shahid Azmi of Shahid (2012). The National and Filmfare-award winner Raj-kummar Rao, known for his impactful roles in the past, is back with a light role for the first time in a rom-com, Behen Hogi Teri. Directed by Ajay Pannalal, the film has drawn attention also for their innovative promotional activities – like the van that drove around north India with a girl armed with rakhis, who accosted random couples, urging the men to be her brother. The Mumbai-based 32 year-old Rajkummar has two more films coming up — Bareilly Ki Barfi, and Newton this July. Here, the City Lights actor chats with us on his latest film, his dancing skills and more.

What prompted you to attempt comedy for Behen Hogi Teri?

I don’t like restricting myself to a specific genre and that’s the fun of being an actor – where you get to choose different roles. It helps me overcome the monotony.

What drew you to the script?

The characters are very real and the story is not something that’s over the top. It is based on a real incident from the director’s life and people like Gattu (my character) and Binny (Shruti’s character) do exist. The story revolves around Gattu, who falls in love with his neighbour only to get bro-zoned by her. Even during my own school days I have seen a lot of girls running around with rakhis so I do understand the pain of getting bro-zoned. 
 
Tell us about working with Shruti?

I had a great time working with her. We gelled very well from the first day on set - from helping each other as actors to being honest to our characters. That’s probably why people say that we shared  good chemistry.

Did you have to try out something new for this film?

Despite being a teetotaller, I had to drink alcohol. It was supposed to be a three-minute scene but it turned out to be a 30-minute one and everybody was in splits. I don’t mind attempting anything out of my way if it really helps to improvise my performance.
 
The poster that features you in Lord Shiva's attire sitting on a bike, wearing chappals has stirred up a controversy. Your thoughts? 

I genuinely don’t know what went wrong but we never intended to hurt anybody’s sentiments. When you watch the film you will realise that it is only a small part of the script.
 
We hear great things about your dancing skills...

I love dancing but never got many opportunities to exhibit it, hence I grabbed this one.