How can the same actor drive every story of Dinesh Vijan’s horror comedy universe? That was our first thought while watching the trailer of Rajkummar Rao’s Roohi. So, we start our chat, posing the fundamental question to the actor: Which role will he play when the worlds of Stree and Roohi eventually converge in a film? “I was Vicky in Stree, and in Roohi, I play a character called Bhanwra. Dinoo’s larger plan is to have a film or two with both characters. So, it sounds like a double role is in the offing,” he smiles. 

The past few months have been exceptional for Rao. Oscillating between the affable Alu nurturing his unrequited love story in Ludo and the entitled US-returned Ashok in The White Tiger, the actor has continued to chase diverse roles and take risks. “Stree was a path-breaking film. So when Roohi came along, I knew I had to do it. We didn’t expect Stree to fare as well as it did. As an actor, I never consciously take the pressure of delivering on the commercials because I focus on my art. Films are not about formulas. I don’t look for films where I am the lead. I read a script and think, ‘Do I want this in my filmography?’ Ludo was an ensemble film. I am secure, and never feel the need to replicate others’ trajectory.”

The OTT boom in 2020 saw actors like Pratik Gandhi and Jaideep Ahlawat claim their share of the spotlight. Tell him the competition is no longer restricted to the likes of Ayushmann Khurrana and Vicky Kaushal, and he insists they are all working towards a common goal. “When I see Scam 1992 or Paatal Lok, I wish I get to work with these great actors. Good actors inspire me. I did Bose in 2017, and know the investment required for a series. The audience now respects unique stories. We are collectively working towards making content the real star.”

Meanwhile, The White Tiger has earned a place in the longlist across seven categories at the BAFTAs. Ask him if he is game for more international projects, and he says, “If an opportunity turns up, I will want to strike a balance like Priyanka [Chopra Jonas] and Irrfan sir. Hindi cinema is my karmabhoomi, so this will be my focus.”