Rajkummar Rao Survived On Parle G And Frooti During His Struggle Days: 'I Had Rs 18 In My Account'

Rajkummar Rao embarked on his acting journey with Dibakar Banerjee’s film “Love Sex aur Dhokha” in 2010. Over time, he rose to prominence as one of the most respected actors of his generation. However, before achieving success in the film industry, Rajkummar faced significant financial struggles during his early days. In a recent interview with Ranveer Allahbadia, he opened up about the harsh realities of his hardships, recalling moments when he had to go without proper meals in Mumbai, surviving on just a packet of Parle-G biscuits and Frooti. He also shared a poignant memory of having only Rs 18 left in his bank account, highlighting the obstacles he conquered on his journey to success.

Reflecting on his challenges in Mumbai before gaining fame, Rajkummar expressed, “The most difficult time was facing financial difficulty and getting no work. My mother supported me a lot and when I would run out of money, she would arrange it and send. I remember once I was left with only Rs 18 in my account and that too in a city like Mumbai. I used to spend very frugally. We three used to live in one flat and I used to skip lunch and have one Parle Ji and Frooti for lunch. My lunch would cost me Rs 4 at the time.”

During Rajkummar’s financial challenges, his FTII classmates frequently came to his aid. He shared, “Now, the day I was left with only Rs 18, I was thinking what will I do? We have a FTII (Film and Television Institute of India) committee in Mumbai. A lot of our seniors and juniors live here. So, you can ring anybody and ask them what are they having for dinner and if you can come.”

Even prior to relocating to Mumbai, Rajkummar began his journey towards becoming an actor. Recalling his days in Delhi and his dedication to reaching his acting school by cycling 140 kilometers daily, he shared, “I started preparing to become an actor after school. After completing school, I joined Sri Ram Centre in Delhi, it’s an acting school. I was 18 at the time. So, somebody told me to join college for graduation so that I can get a bus pass. In that way you can save money. I got to know this very late. Before that I used to go to the acting school on bicycle and would ride the cycle for 70 kms up and down. I would hear songs like “Lakshya Ko Har Haal Me Pana Hai,” “Papa Kahte Hain” and all on my walkman on my way there. It sounds filmy now but it used to be a lot of fun.”

Rajkummar is currently occupied with the promotions of his upcoming movie ‘Srikanth.’ Additionally, he is set to star in ‘Mr. and Mrs. Mahi’ alongside Janhvi Kapoor, Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video’ with Tripti Dimri, and the highly anticipated ‘Stree 3,’ all in the works.