‘Aligarh’ was a life-transforming experience for Rajkummar Rao, who played a journalist in Hansal Mehta’s real-life inspired story about Aligarh Muslim University, professor Shrinivas Ramachandra Siras.
The National-award winning actor said he has become more compassionate towards the same sex people and their problems as he got to know more about Siras, who was suspended because of his sexual orientation following a sting operation. “I care about everyone. I don’t judge people based on their sexual orientation. Through the film, I got to know Siras’ journey, and could see the internal struggle homosexual people face, and how they go into their own shells. A certain section of society does not accept them. I could see the pain and agony these people go through as they can’t come out in open.”
The actor said he was moved by the powerful script and was on board for it at the first go. “When Hansal asked me if I was interested in doing a part, I said that I would love to do the film. The script was so well-written.”
A section of intellectuals are unhappy with the film, for showing Aligarh in bad light. “I think they feel the name ‘’Aligarh’’ leaves a wrong impression about the city. Let them see the film first. Siras was completely in love with the city as he spent the last 30 years there.”
Rajkummar says he believes that Bajpayee’s acting has always impacted him and has helped him grow as an actor.
‘’Getting a chance to work with him is overwhelming.’’