"No matter how much fame someone achieves in the acting world, there are some actors whom they look up to and strive to improve themselves," Rao said, emphasizing that mentorship in acting isn't limited to newcomers.
Rao's comments highlight an important, often overlooked aspect of an actor's growth-the idea that learning is a continuous process, regardless of one's stature in the industry. At a time when public conversations in Bollywood are frequently dominated by rivalries and box-office comparisons, Rao's reflections on mentorship and humility offer a more grounded perspective on what sustains a long acting career.
The Mentors Who Shaped Him
Rao specifically named the late Irrfan Khan and Manoj Bajpayee as artists whose work he continues to study closely. "Every actor should find their mentors. I look up to these artists and try to understand how they work and how they progressed their careers," he explained. For Rao, mentorship goes beyond mimicking performance style-it extends to observing work ethic and professional attitude, elements he considers just as vital as raw talent.
Praise for Anil Kapoor's Discipline
The actor also spoke admiringly of Anil Kapoor, particularly his ability to sustain energy and relevance across decades. "The way Anil Kapoor maintained himself in the 80s and 90s is quite special. Even after so many years, he works with the same energy and tries to keep himself active," Rao noted-pointing to Kapoor's longevity as a benchmark for sustained excellence in an industry known for its unpredictability.
Working With Akshay Kumar: A Changed Perspective
One of the more candid moments in the podcast came when Rao discussed his experience working alongside Akshay Kumar in "Jolly LLB 3." He admitted that prior perceptions, shaped largely by industry rumors, didn't match reality. "Earlier, I used to hear all sorts of things about Akshay from others and believed them to be true. However, after working together, I realized that Akshay is a very disciplined person," Rao shared.
This admission is notable, as it reflects a broader industry truth: public perception of actors, often built on hearsay, can shift significantly through direct collaboration-a point that adds authenticity and credibility to Rao's remarks.
A Career Built on Versatility
Gajraj Rao's own filmography speaks to the same dedication he attributes to his mentors. He has delivered acclaimed performances in "Badhaai Ho," "Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan," and "Satyaprem Ki Katha," alongside a well-received turn in a comedy series, further cementing his reputation as a versatile performer equally at ease in film and episodic content.
Industry Takeaway
Rao's reflections come at a time when audiences are increasingly drawn to actors' personal journeys and off-screen humility, not just their on-screen performances. By openly crediting his influences, Rao reinforces a culture of respect and continuous learning-qualities that may resonate strongly with younger actors navigating their own careers in a rapidly evolving industry.
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