Prahaar – From college friends to actor-director: Avinash Arun on Rajkummar Rao’s journey as Ujjwal Nikam

Rajkummar Rao steps into the shoes of legendary lawyer Ujjwal Nikam in Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam, directed by Avinash Arun Dhaware – bringing the story of one of India’s most prominent criminal lawyers to the big screen!

For director Avinash Arun Dhaware, Rajkummar Rao was always the first choice to portray Ujjwal Nikam. Speaking about the casting, Avinash highlights Rajkummar’s National Award-winning talent and his ability to bring conviction, dedication and depth to complex characters. The actor’s approach to his craft made him a natural fit for a role.

The collaboration also holds a personal significance for the director and actor. Avinash Arun and Rajkummar Rao share a long association that dates back to their college days. Their journey from being college friends to eventually working together on a story of such importance adds another layer to their collaboration on Prahaar.

Avinash also speaks highly of Rajkummar’s instinctive approach to performance, describing him as a “one-take artist.” According to the director, several scenes between them came together in the very first take!

With Rajkummar Rao taking on the challenging role of Ujjwal Nikam, the film brings together a strong ensemble cast including Wamiqa Gabbi, Jaideep Ahlawat, Sikandar Kher, Tarun Sharma and Lalit Prabhakar.

Directed by Avinash Arun Dhaware and produced by Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam releases in cinemas on 16th October.