Rajkummar on almost choosing science over acting: Thank God that didn't happen

IANS May 14, 2025 297 views

Rajkummar Rao's journey from almost becoming a science student to a national award-winning actor is fascinating. Growing up with family pressure to pursue science, he briefly considered switching paths in 11th grade. Fortunately, his passion for acting and performing arts prevailed, leading him to become a successful Bollywood star. His story is a testament to following one's true passion despite external expectations.

"Thank God that didn't happen. I had no interest in it" - Rajkummar Rao
Rajkummar on almost choosing science over acting: Thank God that didn't happen
New Delhi, May 14: National Award-winning actor Rajkummar Rao revealed that he once considered taking up Science in the 11th grade, driven by family influence, but is now thankful that he didn't go down that path.

Key Points

1

Rajkummar nearly pursued science in 11th grade due to family influence

2

Actor was always passionate about performing arts

3

Theatre and acting were his true calling

4

Graduated from Delhi University while doing theatre

Talking about if there is a "Bhool Chuk" that he made and is thankful for, Rajkummar told IANS: "For some reason, in Class 11, I wanted to take Science because I think the atmosphere at home was like that my elder brother and even most of my cousins were science students."

Rajkummar shared how he briefly considered Science due to peer influence, despite his passion for acting.

"But I was always into acting -- I used to do stage performances, dance, martial arts -- but it was just that everyone else was taking Science, so I thought I should too," said the actor, who completed his 12th grade from S.N. Sidheshwar Senior. Sec Public School, where he participated in school plays.

The 40-year-old star expressed relief for not pursuing Science, as his true passion lies in acting.

"Thank God that didn't happen. I had no interest in it, and there would have been pressure to study a lot. But when your interest lies elsewhere, it feels like you get stuck in something you don't truly want," said the actor, who graduated from Delhi University, where he was simultaneously doing theatre with Kshitij Theatre Group and the Shri Ram Centre in Delhi.

The actor currently awaits the release of his next "Bhool Chuk Maaf", which was supposed to hit the screens on May 9, however the makers on May 8 announced that it would now release digitally on Prime Video on May 16, in "light of recent events and the heightened security drills across the nation" after the Indian Air Force targeted the terrorists' sites without crossing the Pakistan airspace.

However, the release of the film has now hit the pause button. The Bombay High Court granted an ad-interim injunction restraining Maddock Films from releasing Bhool Chuk Maaf on OTT platforms before completing its agreed-upon 8-week theatrical run with PVR Inox.

PVR Inox, in its court plea, argued that the last-minute change was a breach of the contract signed between the parties on May 6, 2025. The agreement specified that the film must have an 8-week window before it can be released online.

Directed by Karan Sharma, "Bhool Chuk Maaf revolves around Ranjan, a small-town romantic boy from Banaras,who lands a government job to marry Titli but forgets his vow to Lord Shiva-only to be trapped until he fulfills his promise. A hilarious tale of love, fate, and redemption unfolds.

Reader Comments

A
Anjali P.
So relatable! In India, we're often pushed towards science/engineering without considering our passions. Glad Rajkummar followed his heart - look where he is now! More parents should understand that arts can be equally rewarding. 😊
R
Rahul K.
Typical Indian family pressure! But honestly, even if he had taken science, someone with his talent would have found his way to acting eventually. Talent can't be hidden for long.
P
Priya M.
Interesting how the film's release got tangled in legal issues. OTT vs theaters debate continues! Personally think 8 weeks is too long - 4 weeks would be fair for both parties. What do others think?
V
Vikram S.
Rajkummar's journey is inspiring but let's not completely dismiss science education. Many actors (like Hrithik) have science backgrounds which help them understand scripts better. Balance is key!
S
Sneha R.
The film's plot sounds so Indian - Lord Shiva's promise, Banaras setting, government job angle! 😄 Can't wait to watch it. Rajkummar always picks such rooted stories. More power to him!
K
Karan D.
While I admire Rajkummar's success, the article seems to glorify dropping science a bit too much. Not everyone can be a successful actor - stable careers have their own merits. Just saying!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Your email won't be published


Disclaimer: Comments here reflect the author's views alone. Insulting or using offensive language against individuals, communities, religion, or the nation is illegal.

Tags: