Rajkummar Rao Reveals His First Film Salary Was Just ₹11,000, Highlighting Humble Beginnings In Bollywood

Rajkummar Rao, one of Bollywood’s most acclaimed actors today, reflected on his early years in Mumbai during a conversation on The Right Angle with Sonal Kalra. Despite hailing from a non-filmy background in Delhi, Rao moved to Mumbai with a single-minded focus on acting, without considering an alternative career path.

Salary For His First Film

Rao revealed that his first film salary was just ₹11,000, a figure that highlights the humble beginnings of his career. He explained that while many assume success in Bollywood comes quickly, the reality is far more gradual. His journey from small roles to national recognition was marked by persistence, auditions, and an unwavering belief in his craft.

No Plan B

When asked if he ever thought of giving up, Rao firmly stated that he never considered quitting. He was determined to stay in Mumbai and chase his dreams, regardless of the challenges. He credited his mother’s faith in him as a source of strength, saying she always believed things would eventually work out.

Perspective On Struggle

Interestingly, Rao refuses to label his early years as “struggle.” Instead, he views them as part of the process of becoming an actor. He believes that every audition, rejection, and small opportunity contributed to his growth and eventual success. His story resonates with aspiring actors who often face similar uncertainties in the industry.

Key Highlights

• Rajkummar Rao revealed his first film salary was ₹11,000
• He emphasized that success in Bollywood doesn’t happen overnight
• Rao had no backup plan and relied solely on acting ambitions
• His mother’s faith gave him confidence to continue despite challenges
• He refuses to call his early years a struggle, seeing them as growth

Sources: Hindustan Times