Gajraj Rao on his 30-year-struggle in the industry: ‘Was not fantasising about overnight glory’

Q. You have been a part of the Hindi film industry for about 25 years. But it was only after Badhaai Ho that you shot to (overnight) success. How has life been before and after the film?

Gajraj Rao: Badhaai Ho proved to be a turning point; it gave filmmakers the confidence that I could do justice to larger and more prominent roles. That trust led to interesting opportunities in projects like Maidaan, Hungama Hai Kyon Barpa, and Satyaprem Ki Katha. It also opened doors to cultural events like the Spoken Fest, where I performed, adding a new chapter to my journey.

Q. What do you think struck a chord with the audience when it came to Jeetender Kaushik?

Gajraj Rao: While Inspector Dhaniram in Talvar and Dawood Phanse in Black Friday are roles very close to my heart, they were more on the story’s sidelines. In contrast, Jitendra Kaushik in Badhaai Ho was a central character, sharing the spotlight with Mrs Kaushik, played beautifully by Neena (Gupta) ji. The trajectory of this elderly couple’s story struck a deep chord with audiences across all age groups.

Q. You have opened up about struggling for almost 30 years. Did you ever think of switching professions?

Gajraj Rao: No, I was never disappointed, discouraged, or disheartened about not getting author-backed roles. I did not daydream or fantasise about overnight glory either. I firmly believe in the old Sanskrit saying: Karmanyevadhikaraste, ma phaleshu kadachana—focus on your actions without worrying about the results. I approached every small role that came my way with complete dedication while keeping myself engaged in directing ad films. Life can become bleak if we dwell on what we don’t have instead of celebrating what we do. My mantra has always been to celebrate what you have while working hard for more, side by side.

 

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Q. How did you deal with disappointments during tough times and take care of your mental health during such testing times?

Gajraj Rao: Disappointment or constant complaining can never fuel a creative journey. In fact, it can push you into a dark tunnel, making it harder to find your way out. Fortunately, I’ve had a few close friends from my theatre days who act as mirrors, offering honest feedback and support. And, of course, my family has always stood by me during any down phases in life. Beyond this, books, music, and cinema provided solace and inspiration, and the energy to keep going.

Q. Tell us about your session at the Spoken Fest.

Gajraj Rao: I was excited and nervous about going on the Spoken Fest stage—it’s something entirely new for me. I shared a small story and a few anecdotes, nothing too elaborate. Since I managed to survive this experience with the mercy of the audience, I might try it again. If I had not, well… tata!

Q. As an actor, what has been your most significant learning in all these years?

Gajraj Rao: That nothing is impossible, and nothing is permanent. Life keeps evolving, and so do opportunities and challenges. It’s all about staying resilient and adaptable through it all.

Gajrao Rao at Spoken Fest Mumbai. (Photo: PR handout)

Q. You have worked with some seasoned actors. Whom have you enjoyed working with the most?

Gajraj Rao: Sharing screen space with Ajay Devgn in Maidaan was an incredibly fulfilling experience. His dedication, focus, and grounded nature are genuinely inspiring, and working alongside him was both a learning opportunity and a memorable chapter in my journey.

Q. Personally, what do you believe is the true secret to success?

Gajraj Rao: I’m still searching for that formula and I’ll share it with you once I figure it out. But in my understanding, real success is when you’re truly happy — when you’re free from insecurity, jealousy, and anxiety. I’ve seen such happy and wonderful people performing on the Spoken Fest stage and other platforms—artists like Varun Grover, Swanand Kirkire, Amol Parashar, Rahgir, Naayab Midha, Laksh Maheshwari, and Zakir Khan. They embody that sense of contentment and creativity. I hope to reach that place someday.

Q. Acting or directing, which is more creatively satisfying, and why?

Gajraj Rao: I enjoy both equally, though I might lean slightly more towards directing. There’s something uniquely fulfilling about shaping a story from behind the camera and bringing a vision to life.

 

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Q. Over the years, how has the industry changed? How would you describe this change?

Gajraj Rao: The entertainment industry is evolving constantly, especially after the YouTube and digital revolution. In my opinion, it has become more democratic. Gone are the days when one could blame closed doors at studios like Rohit Shetty’s, Karan Johar’s, or Yash Raj Films. Now, with a mobile phone, anyone can record their creativity and share it on platforms like YouTube or Instagram. If you have that spark, you’ll find an audience, and eventually, even filmmakers will notice—just like creators such as Kusha Kapila and Niharika NM, who built their own success stories.

Q. Which on-screen role of yours do you associate with closely, and why?

Gajraj Rao: I think Badhaai Ho’s Kaushik remains the closest to me, mainly because of his light-hearted approach to life. I really resonate with that kind of person—someone who stays grounded and joyful despite challenges. Like Kaushik, a railway ticket examiner and a poet at heart, I, too, find beauty in simple moments of life.