Interview Times 
FEATURE: Rajesh Sharma, a name synonymous with powerful character roles and gripping performances, has carved a niche for himself in the Indian film industry. Predominantly known for his work in Hindi and Bengali cinema, Sharma’s journey from a struggling theatre artist to a celebrated actor and cinema entrepreneur is a tale of perseverance, passion, and relentless dedication.
Born on October 8, 1970, in Ludhiana, Punjab, Rajesh Sharma nurtured a childhood dream of becoming an actor. Despite the odds, his unwavering passion for acting pushed him to chase his dreams. To support his family, he worked as a taxi driver for Bachchan Singh Dhaba in 1994. Mornings were dedicated to earning a livelihood, while evenings were spent performing on stage—a testament to his undying love for theatre.
His formal training in acting began at the National School of Drama in New Delhi, where he was classmates with actor Ashish Vidyarthi. His journey into the world of theatre led him to Kolkata, where he joined the prestigious theatre group “Rangakarmi.” Under the guidance of Usha Ganguly and Aparna Sen, two stalwarts of Indian theatre, Sharma honed his skills and performed in numerous plays, including Gudia Ki Ghar and Rangakarmi.
Contrary to popular belief, Rajesh Sharma did not make his Bollywood debut with Maachis (1996). In an interview, he clarified that while he first shot for Khosla Ka Ghosla, his debut release was Parineeta (2005). His ability to portray characters with authenticity and depth soon made him a sought-after actor in both Hindi and Bengali films.
Sharma gained national recognition for his roles in several Bollywood hits, including The Dirty Picture (2011), Special 26 (2013), Tanu Weds Manu Returns (2015), M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story (2016), Toilet: Ek Prem Katha (2017), Dream Girl (2019), Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 (2022), and Darlings (2022). His performances in these films were widely praised, often stealing the spotlight despite being in supporting roles. He considers his role as Titu Mama in Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana (2012) as one of his personal favorites.
Rajesh Sharma is equally respected in Bengali cinema, where he has portrayed a range of intense and complex characters, often leaning towards negative roles. Some of his most notable Bengali films include Pratibad (2001), Bombaiyer Bombete (2003), Kranti (2006), Baishe Srabon (2011), Dotara (2018), and Purba Paschim Dakshin (2019). His performances in these films have solidified his reputation as a powerful performer who can effortlessly switch between hero and antagonist.
The advent of digital entertainment saw Sharma making his mark in the web space. His performances in web series such as Paatal Lok (2020, Amazon Prime), JL50 (2021, Sony LIV), and Amit Bhadana LLB (2022, YouTube) were well received. He also starred in the bilingual web series Kark Rogue (2020) on Zee5, further showcasing his adaptability to new-age storytelling formats. In addition to full-length films, Sharma has also appeared in several Hindi short films, including Mirzaa (2017), Armed (2018), Red (2019), Tindey (2019), and Almariyaan (2020). His role in Tindey earned him the prestigious Filmfare Award for Best Actor, further cementing his position as a versatile performer.
Not just an actor, Rajesh Sharma has also contributed to cinema as an entrepreneur. He is the founder of PSR Cinemas, a chain of movie theatres in Odisha, aimed at revolutionizing the cinematic experience for regional audiences. His initiative in launching these theatres has brought cinema closer to people in smaller towns, making high-quality viewing accessible to audiences beyond metropolitan cities.
Sharma has extended his talent to television as well. In 1999, he appeared in Star Bestsellers on Star Plus, making his small-screen debut in the episode Govind Aur Ganesh. In 2020, he hosted the Bengali TV show Bengal Crime. His versatility has also made him a popular face in commercials for brands like Godrej Security Systems, Ferns N Petals, and Gintaa. His ability to transition seamlessly between television, films, and digital platforms highlights his adaptability and ever-evolving craft.
Rajesh Sharma married Sangeeta Sharma in 2011. Despite his demanding career, he maintains a low-profile personal life. A travel and music enthusiast, he enjoys exploring new destinations in his leisure time. In 2021, he purchased an MG Hector car, marking a personal milestone in his journey. His love for cinema, however, remains his primary passion, and he continues to immerse himself in his craft with the same dedication he exhibited during his struggling days.
Rajesh Sharma’s story is a shining example of hard work and resilience. From humble beginnings to becoming one of India’s most versatile actors, he has left an indelible mark on the film industry. With upcoming projects like Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 (2024) and Navras Katha Collage (2024), Sharma continues to challenge himself and delight audiences. His journey serves as an inspiration, proving that true talent, dedication, and perseverance can break any barrier. Whether playing a comic relief, a menacing villain, or a supportive character, Rajesh Sharma’s performances always leave a lasting impact, making him an indispensable part of Indian cinema.
