Rajkumar Kanojia, one of the renowned faces of Indian television, carries with him over three decades of acting experience. Born in Unnao and raised in Mumbai, his artistic journey began in childhood through active participation in theatre. College days turned serious when he joined Prithvi Theatre and started working under Sanjana Kapoor, daughter of the legendary Shashi Kapoor. From there, he performed in English, Hindi, and Marathi plays alongside acclaimed artists like Makrand Deshpande, KK Menon, and Amit Maurya.
He eventually founded his own theatre group, presenting Hindi, English, and Urdu plays. He also worked in Delhi’s rich theatre circuit with veterans like Amir Raza Hussain, Farooq Sheikh, and Javed Jaffrey.
Reflecting on changing times, Kanojia states that digitalization has reshaped the craft. “Earlier, performances were loud and theatrical—now, acting demands subtlety and seriousness. Technology has made filmmaking faster; a film that took months can now wrap in 40 days. However, the emotional bonding has reduced, and the field has become project-oriented,” he remarks.
His camera debut was in the Doordarshan serial Chandamama (Ungulimaal episode), and his first film Kahan Ho Tum marked the beginning of his cinematic journey alongside newcomers Sharman Joshi and Sonu Sood. The film Style became a turning point in his career. He has acted in over 150 short films, 120 feature films, and more than 300 ad films, including award-winning and international projects.
Some of his most acclaimed short films include:
Laddoo – National Award
Katran – Filmfare Award
Mislead – Screened at Cannes
The Right Note, Deception, The Jail, among others
Kanojia has also worked in six international films (French, Polish, German), and speaks multiple Indian languages including Tamil, Telugu, and Marathi. “Language is not a barrier—once you connect with the emotion, everything flows,” he affirms.
His role in Haasil remains close to his heart, especially as it earned appreciation from his friend Nawazuddin Siddiqui. Known for his comedy, he takes pride in also playing serious and negative characters. “Making people laugh and fear you on screen—both are compliments,” he says.
A B.Com graduate, Kanojia emphasizes the importance of being positive, sincere, and well-rounded:
“Jo apne kaam ka nahi, vo kisi kaam ka nahi. Education isn’t just degrees—it’s how you live and grow.”
His dream role? Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. “I want to portray someone who inspired the nation,” he shares.
Personally, he finds support in his family—his mother, wife, and son—and draws strength from life’s simple philosophy:
“Jo ho gaya, vo jeevan ka adbhut prasang hai. Sab kuch shanik hai. Ghamand mat karo. Ped ki tarah bano—nishabd, vinamr aur faldaayi.”
(What happens is a beautiful chapter of life. Everything is temporary. Don’t be arrogant. Be like a tree—silent, humble, and fruitful.)
Currently, his shows Udne Ki Asha (Star Plus) and Tum Se Tum Tak (Zee TV) are on air, continuing to showcase his talent and passion.