Before achieving fame with Badhaai Ho, Gajraj Rao supported his theatre pursuits by working as a freelance journalist, interviewing stars like Mehmood and Yash Chopra. He recalled learning the tricks of the trade on the job, including confidently posing as a reporter from big newspapers to get access
Gajraj Rao
Today, Gajraj Rao is celebrated as one of the most versatile actors in the Indian film industry. His career took a transformative turn with the success of Badhaai Ho in 2018, a film that opened several doors for him. But long before his cinematic breakthrough, Rao began his artistic journey in Delhi—as a passionate theatre artist.
Though he wasn’t facing financial hardship during his theatre days, he felt the need to earn money to support his theatre-related activities. It was during this time that Rao unexpectedly stepped into the world of journalism.
How Gajraj Rao got to interview Yash Chopra
In a conversation on Mid-day’s Bombay Film Story, Rao recalled how he became a journalist. He had made friends with journalists at Delhi’s Mandi House, one of whom—Arvind Gaur, now a theatre director—suggested that Rao write for a local newspaper. Despite having no formal journalism training, his love for Hindi literature and reading helped him find his footing.
Recalling his early experiences, Rao said, “The first interview I ever did was with Mehmood saab, and it went quite well. Our photographers would get information from insider sources about which celebrities were staying at five-star hotels. The real challenge was approaching them. And yes, we had to lie a little—because if you said you were a freelance Hindi journalist, no one would take you seriously.”
Rao shared how senior freelancers taught him to sound confident and name a reputable publication to get access. “So when Yash Chopra was staying at the Taj Mahal Hotel, I called him and said, ‘Main Navbharat Times se bol raha hoon. 12 baje aap free hain kya?’”
To his surprise, Chopra agreed. “Imagine—sitting in a suite at the Taj Mahal Hotel, being served tea by Pamela Chopra, and having a respectful conversation with Yash Chopra. It wasn’t like I was asking for a role. I respected theatre too much to misuse such an opportunity. The article came out well and was published,” he added.
The funny Shatrughan Sinha encounter
Rao also recalled a humorous moment involving actor Shatrughan Sinha. “A week later, I found out that Shatrughan Sinha was staying at the Holiday Inn. I called him, and he asked me to connect him with SP (my boss at the time). I had no idea they were friends!” he said, laughing at the memory.
From modest beginnings in theatre and journalism to becoming a beloved name in Indian cinema, Gajraj Rao’s journey continues to inspire.
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