Rajkummar Rao, known for his versatility and compelling performances, marked his 40th birthday with the announcement of his upcoming film Maalik. On August 31, 2024, the actor shared the first-look poster of the film on Instagram, giving fans a glimpse of his intense character and earning an enthusiastic reaction from his wife, Patralekhaa.
Rajkummar Rao Shares First-Look Poster of Maalik
Rajkummar Rao is making waves in 2024 with multiple film releases, and the announcement of Maalik adds to the excitement. The poster, revealed on his Instagram, shows Rao in a commanding pose, dressed in a white shirt and pants, standing on a Jeep with a gun in hand. His fierce expression and the tagline, “Paida nahi hue to kya, ban toh sakte hain” (It doesn’t matter if you are not born one; you can become one), set the tone for what appears to be a gripping narrative.
In his post, Rajkummar wrote, “#Maalik ki duniya mein aapka Swagat hai. Shoot shuru ho chuka hai, jald hi mulaqat hogi!” (Welcome to the world of Maalik. The shoot has started; we will meet soon). The announcement has generated considerable buzz, with fans and celebrities expressing their excitement in the comments. Patralekhaa’s reaction, “Jeeee baat,” accompanied by fire emojis, mirrors the anticipation among fans.
Film Details and Production Team
Maalik is directed by Pulkit, known for his work on Bhakshak, and is produced by Kumar Taurani and Jay Shewakramani under Tips Films and Northern Lights Films. This collaboration marks a new chapter for Rajkummar Rao as he steps away from his recent comedic roles to explore a more action-packed character.
Earlier reports from Pinkvilla highlighted Rao’s enthusiasm for working with Pulkit, noting that the film will be a departure from his recent work in the comic genre. A source mentioned that the details of the plot are being kept under wraps, but filming is expected to proceed with a marathon schedule in 2024. Maalik will see Rao portraying a gangster, a role that will allow him to delve into a more intense and gritty character.
Fresh Casting and Character Dynamics
The film also stars Manushi Chhillar, former Miss World, as the female lead, making her debut alongside Rao in a fresh pairing that promises to bring new dynamics to the screen. According to sources, the filmmakers sought fresh casting to enhance the film’s appeal, and the chemistry between Rao and Chhillar is expected to be a highlight.
Set against the backdrop of Uttar Pradesh, Maalik will explore themes of power and ambition. Rajkummar Rao’s character is rooted in UP’s cultural and social landscape, with extensive filming planned in the state, followed by shoots in Mumbai. The actor is reportedly preparing for the role through readings and workshops to fully embody his character’s complexities.
Upcoming Projects and Current Successes
Rajkummar Rao continues to build momentum in his career with a lineup of intriguing projects. He is currently enjoying the success of his horror comedy Stree 2 and is set to appear in Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video. With Maalik, Rajkummar Rao is poised to add another compelling performance to his repertoire, further establishing himself as one of the industry’s most versatile actors.
Maalik is expected to release in theaters in 2025, offering fans an action-packed experience rooted in a narrative of transformation and ambition. For more updates on Maalik, tune in to Vviptimes.