Rajkummar Rao Unveils Fierce Gangster Avatar in Teaser of Maalik, Set to Release on July 11, 2025

Rajkummar Rao is all set to captivate audiences in a never-seen-before avatar as he headlines the upcoming gangster action thriller Maalik. Slated to hit theatres on July 11, 2025, the film promises to deliver a raw and intense cinematic experience. The makers dropped the teaser today, offering a glimpse into the gritty world of crime and violence set in 1988 Allahabad.

Directed by Pulkit and produced by Kumar Taurani and Jay Shewakramani under the banners of Tips Films and Northern Lights Films, Maalik was originally scheduled for a June 20 release but has now been pushed to mid-July.

The teaser introduces viewers to a ruthless Rajkummar Rao who appears to be in full command of his gangster era. “The teaser opens with a gripping scene, Rajkummar walks down a corridor, rifle in hand, as people run helter-skelter in panic. Moments later, a bloodied and bruised Rajkummar violently thrashes an opponent with a metal container.”

He is then seen dragging a lifeless body through the streets as stunned onlookers watch in silence. Rao’s character boldly proclaims, “Hume farak nahi padhta hai ki logo ko kya lagta hai ki hum villain hai, hero hai. Humari kahani mei hum hero hai.” The teaser begins with a chilling voiceover: “Samaj me do tarah ke log hote hai. 1 joh pasina bahake apna hak ka roti kamata hai aur 1 jo khoon pasina bahake apna hak ka roti chheen leta hai. Hum dusra waala hai.”

Set against a dark and turbulent backdrop, Maalik charts the rise of a man who chooses brutality over morality to claim his place in society. With high-octane action, graphic violence, and gritty storytelling, the film is shaping up to be a striking addition to the gangster genre in Hindi cinema.

The project also marks a significant shift in Rajkummar Rao’s filmography. Known for his nuanced portrayals in small-town dramas and comedies, Rao takes a bold leap with this role. His recent films, including Stree 2, Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video, and Bhool Chuk Maaf, leaned heavily into humor and slice-of-life narratives. Maalik showcases the actor’s versatility, allowing him to explore a darker, more aggressive persona on screen.

With the teaser now out and anticipation building, Maalik promises to be a powerful cinematic outing — not just for fans of the genre, but for anyone eager to witness Rajkummar Rao in a role that redefines his on-screen identity.