Rohtak (Haryana) [India], April 6: Bollywood actor Rajkummar Rao, known for his versatile performances, lauded the Haryana Film Festival 2025 for providing a vital platform to aspiring artists and filmmakers. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony held in Rohtak on Saturday, Rao encouraged the youth to follow their passion in cinema with honesty and dedication.
Rao was invited as a chief guest at the festival alongside Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. Expressing his joy at visiting Rohtak for the first time, the actor fondly recalled his connection to the city through his friend and fellow actor Jaideep Ahlawat, a native of Rohtak and Rao’s classmate at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII).
“I have crossed Rohtak many times, but this is the first time I’m stopping here. It’s my dear friend Jaideep Ahlawat’s hometown. He speaks about it often, just like I speak about Gurugram,” Rao shared during his speech.
Encouraging aspiring talents, Rao said, “If you’re truly passionate about acting, directing, editing, or any part of filmmaking, then pursue it with full heart and honesty. If it’s just a hobby, let it be. But if you dream of it as a career, give it everything. I stand as proof that passion and hard work can take you far.”
Reflecting on his own journey, the ‘Stree’ and ‘Newton’ actor noted the evolving landscape of the Indian film industry, especially in regional spaces. “When I was growing up, there were hardly any platforms like this. Today, there are so many opportunities, especially here in Haryana. As the Chief Minister rightly said, there’s no need to look elsewhere — the talent is right here, and the industry is taking notice.”
Rao also extended his heartfelt thanks to CM Nayab Singh Saini and Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU) for their efforts in making the Haryana Film Festival 2025 a reality.
The festival aims to nurture young storytellers from Haryana by offering them exposure, mentorship, and a space to showcase their work — marking a major step toward decentralizing India’s film industry and recognizing talent from every corner of the country.