Rajkummar Rao stuns in a wild, rugged look for Maalik, growing his beard for 80+ days to portray a raw, intense gangster. Director Pulkit reveals the gritty thought behind the transformation. The crime drama hits cinemas on July 11, 2025, promising a bold new chapter in Rao’s career.
Bollywood actor Rajkummar Rao, known for his versatility and dedication, has undergone a striking transformation for his upcoming film Maalik. In what’s being described as one of his boldest roles to date, Rao sports a rugged, unkempt look that radiates raw intensity and fierce energy. The transformation, which involved growing his beard for over 80 days, has taken fans and critics by surprise — and it’s all part of a carefully thought-out creative vision.
Directed by Pulkit, Maalik promises a gritty crime drama set in a dark, violent underworld dominated by power, ambition, and survival. The film is produced by Kumar Taurani under the Tips Films banner and Jay Shewakramani of Northern Lights Films. It is slated for a theatrical release on July 11, 2025.
A Transformation Rooted in Grit and Realism
Speaking about Rajkummar Rao’s remarkable physical transformation, director Pulkit explained the motivation behind the wild new look. “We wanted Raj to embody a sense of raw power — something that feels lived-in, gritty, and unapologetically real. He committed to the process fully, both physically and emotionally,” Pulkit shared.
Rao’s commitment went far beyond just costume and makeup. Growing his beard for nearly three months was just one part of the deep character immersion. The result is a screen presence that is intense, bold, and fiercely memorable. “What you see in the teaser is just the beginning. There’s so much more to this character, and Rajkummar has delivered something truly special,” the director added.
A Never-Seen-Before Avatar
The teaser of Maalik, recently released, has already generated significant buzz. It introduces audiences to a never-seen-before Rajkummar Rao — portraying a ruthless gangster who thrives in a brutal, unforgiving world. The teaser’s visuals are intense and dark, offering a chilling glimpse into Rao’s descent into the role of a man shaped by violence, power struggles, and ambition.
Rao, who has previously won praise for roles in films like Stree, Trapped, and Newton, appears to have pushed his limits yet again. The teaser reveals a steely, unrelenting version of the actor, shedding all traces of the softer, more affable characters he’s played in the past. With piercing eyes, a fierce glare, and that wild beard, he fully immerses himself in the role — and fans have taken notice.
Fans and Industry React
Rajkummar Rao’s rugged transformation has set social media abuzz. Fans have flooded platforms with praise for his dedication and bold new look, with many calling it his “most fearless” appearance yet. The teaser has heightened anticipation for the full film, with viewers eager to see how Rao’s character evolves in the larger narrative.
Film critics and industry insiders, too, are intrigued. The rawness of the visuals, combined with Rao’s menacing portrayal, suggests Maalik will be more than just another crime film. It could mark a defining moment in Rao’s career — one where he fully embraces a darker, more intense persona that challenges conventional Bollywood norms.
The Vision Behind ‘Maalik’
Pulkit, who helms the director’s chair, is known for blending stylized storytelling with emotional realism. With Maalik, he appears to be pushing boundaries, creating a film that not only entertains but immerses audiences in a visceral, morally complex world.
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Backed by Tips Films and Northern Lights Films, the project has all the ingredients of a gripping cinematic experience — a dedicated lead actor, an ambitious story, and a visual palette that’s both haunting and compelling.
As the release date draws nearer, expectations continue to rise. One thing is certain — Rajkummar Rao’s commitment to Maalik proves once again why he remains one of the most transformative and fearless actors of his generation.
