Exclusive: “I’m a big fan of paani puri,” says Rajkummar Rao

Rajkummar Rao, one of the most versatile actors in Bollywood, is known not only for his remarkable performances but also for his down-to-earth nature. In this candid chat, the actor shares his food preferences, revealing a surprising side to his personality. From enjoying simple, comforting home-cooked meals to savouring local delicacies at his favourite Mumbai spots, Rajkummar opens up about what fuels him off-screen. We take a closer look at the actor’s favourite dishes, his humble approach to food and his love for Indian cuisine.

How do you start your day?

I start my day with a spoon of ghee, followed by some almonds and my black coffee.

Your all-time favourite cuisine?

I love North Indian food.

Your favourite home-cooked dish?

I love homemade food. Aloo paratha is my favourite.

One thing you cook the best?

Once, I tried making sabudana khichdi for Patralekhaa, and she quite liked it.

Tell us about the viral video of you and Patralekhaa having food at Ram Ashraya in Mumbai.

We do that. We love going to Ram Ashraya. Basically, I never wanted to become an actor thinking that I’d have to stop doing the things I enjoy. I still do them because these are the things that have made me who I am. If we like going somewhere, we go there. Why not? What’s the harm?

Your favourite restaurant in Mumbai?

Ram Ashraya. I love the South Indian food there. Dum Pukht at ITC is another favourite. Apart from these, I also like Peshawri at ITC Mughal, Urban Tadka, Gangour, and some great chaat corners in Juhu.

What’s your favourite dessert?

I love jolbhora, especially the ones made with gur. I’m a fan of Indian sweets, and Bengali sweets top the list.

What’s your favourite savoury item?

I’m obsessed with chaat and am a big fan of paani puri.

A healthy dish that you find tasty?

A gluten-free avocado sandwich. I’m vegetarian, and I love the vegan cafes that have opened in Mumbai recently. Most of them have lots of healthy and tasty options.

What is it like for you every time you step out in a public place without any managers or security guards?

You might have to take lots and lots of selfies. But that’s fine. It’s a small sacrifice. I don’t want to live the rest of my life in isolation. I think Mumbai is still pretty cool that way. We live in the city, we’ve seen so many actors, and there are so many shoots happening. People don’t really bother you while you’re eating. But once you get up, of course, everyone wants a selfie. People are sweet; they’re not rude. Somewhere, I feel they see me as one of their own.