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When Rajkummar Rao takes on a character, the conversation often goes beyond the film itself. It becomes about the details, the choices and the extent to which he can make audiences forget the actor behind the performance. With Prahaar – The Ujjwal Nikam Story, Rao appears to have struck that chord again, as netizens turn their attention to his portrayal of the public prosecutor, particularly his courtroom presence, distinctive mannerisms and the conviction he brings to the role.

Playing a real-life figure comes with its own set of expectations. Audiences may already have an idea of the person, their public persona and the way they speak or carry themselves. The challenge lies in bringing those familiar traits to the screen without reducing the character to an imitation. Rao’s portrayal has prompted viewers to appreciate precisely these finer details, with reactions highlighting his ability to inhabit Nikam’s persona while bringing the character to life on screen. The courtroom sequences, in particular, have become a talking point, with viewers responding to the intensity and authority he brings to the role.

What makes the reactions interesting is that the praise extends beyond the dramatic moments. Netizens are also calling attention to the restraint, expressions and small nuances that make a performance believable. It is a familiar strength in Rao’s body of work: whether he is playing an ordinary man caught in extraordinary circumstances or stepping into the shoes of a recognised public figure, he brings a distinct sensibility to each role. From Shahid and Newton to Stree 2 and now Prahaar, his filmography reflects an actor who has moved between critical acclaim and mainstream success without being confined to either.

As audiences react to his latest performance, the conversation once again centres on Rao’s ability to make the character, rather than the star, the focus. Here’s what netizens have been saying about his portrayal in Prahaar: