It has been a year since Stree 2 hit theatres, and while the film brought back the same blend of chills and chuckles that made its predecessor a hit, it was Rajkummar Rao’s pitch-perfect performance that anchored the chaos. As Vicky, the well-meaning yet delightfully bumbling tailor caught in supernatural drama, Rao delivered a masterclass in tonal balance, switching seamlessly between laugh-out-loud moments and genuine vulnerability.
The numbers spoke as loudly as the applause. Stree 2 was not just a critical and audience favourite, it went on to become the highest box office grosser of the year, cementing its place as a cultural phenomenon. Rajkummar’s presence at the helm gave the franchise its soul, ensuring that even amid scares and slapstick, there was an emotional heartbeat audiences connected to.
“I will always be grateful for what Stree 2 has given me. As an actor, you hope every film finds its audience, but the love and support this one received has been overwhelming. Vicky is such a special character to me, and getting to revisit him with this incredible team was pure joy. The love and response this film received will always remain special.”
– Rajkummar Rao
Rajkummar’s genius lies in how he resists the temptation to overplay comedy or horror. Instead, he lets Vicky’s innocence, confusion, and sudden bursts of bravery shine through, making the audience root for him even in the most absurd situations. His chemistry with Shraddha Kapoor retained its playful mystery, while his camaraderie with the ensemble from Pankaj Tripathi to Abhishek Banerjee gave the film its warm, small-town charm.
What makes Stree 2 particularly special in Rao’s career is how it once again showcased his unmatched ability to lead a film without relying on formula. Over the past year, the movie has gained even more love on streaming, proving that Vicky’s charm and fear is timeless. Since then, he has delivered completely different performances in Bhool Chuk Maaf and Maalik, with the latter especially standing out as a showcase of his ability to transform entirely for a
role.