As the cult classic Run (2004) turned 21 last month, actor and comedian Vijay Raaz reflected on what he described as one of the most cherished experiences of his career. Known for his unforgettable portrayal of Ganesh Yadav—Abhishek Bachchan’s quirky friend—Raaz said the role was one he was initially unsure about.
“Initially, I was hesitant about the role. I was convinced to join Run after multiple offers,” he said. “My portrayal of Ganesh, particularly the ‘Kauwya Biryani’ (crow biryani) scene, resonated deeply with audiences and became a cult favourite.”
Now 62, Raaz has seamlessly straddled mainstream entertainers and offbeat cinema, building a filmography as diverse as his range. He has brought life to a wide array of roles—from the comic timing in Delhi Belly and Dhamaal to the gravitas of his performances in Gully Boy and Dedh Ishqiya.
“I didn’t consciously seek out specific types of roles,” he said. “But I am drawn to scripts and characters that offer depth and challenge. This approach has allowed me to avoid being typecast and explore a wide array of roles across genres.”
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A shift to character-driven comedy
Reflecting on the evolution of comedy in Bollywood, Raaz observed that humour has matured over the years.
“Contemporary comedy in films has evolved to be more situational and character-driven,” he said. “The focus has shifted from slapstick humour to more nuanced and contextually rich moments. This evolution reflects a broader trend towards storytelling that prioritises character development and authentic situations.”
He further acknowledged the changing demands of Hindi cinema audiences, who increasingly seek layered narratives over formulaic entertainment.
“I appreciate that films are increasingly focusing on complex characters and narratives that reflect a broader spectrum of human experiences,” he said. “This evolution aligns with the growing demand for stories that go beyond traditional formulas and explore new themes and perspectives.”
OTT platforms and creative freedom
Raaz is a strong advocate for OTT platforms, crediting them with reshaping the industry by opening space for unconventional storytelling.
“These platforms have liberated narratives from traditional constraints, allowing for more experimental and character-driven content,” he said. According to him, the rise of streaming services has provided creative freedom and prioritised stories over star power.
His approach to roles remains rooted in a careful assessment of the script and the creative team behind a project.
“My decision to take on a role is influenced by various factors, including the script’s quality, the character’s depth, and the passion of the director and producer,” he explained. “I don’t have a fixed criterion—I’m drawn to projects that offer something unique and challenging.”
Asked whether he prefers comedy or tragedy, Raaz said his preference depends more on the complexity of the role than the genre.
“My attraction to roles is more about the character’s complexity and the script’s quality rather than the genre alone,” he said.
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From stage to screen
Raaz’s journey into acting began in Delhi, where he spent nearly a decade honing his skills on stage before transitioning to cinema. His breakthrough came when Naseeruddin Shah noticed his performance at the National School of Drama and recommended him for roles in Monsoon Wedding and Bhopal Express.
“These films marked the beginning of my successful film career,” he said.
A native of Delhi, Raaz continues to feel a deep connection to the city.
“I keep missing Delhi’s greenery when in Mumbai,” he said. “I’ve been involved in several film projects shot in Delhi, such as Saat Uchhakkey and O Teri. I still keep visiting for shoots, and often stop by NSD and other theatre houses.”
