Bollywood actor Arjun Rampal is currently riding a wave of acclaim for his powerful performance as Major Iqbal in the recently released film 'Dhurandhar'. As audiences and critics praise his work, the actor has chosen this moment of success to reflect on the challenging beginnings of his cinematic journey, specifically the rocky transition from the world of modeling to the demanding craft of acting.
The Rocky Road from the Runway to the Silver Screen
In a candid interview with IANS, Arjun Rampal shared a detailed account of the struggles and learning process that defined his early career. He revealed that moving from modeling to acting was far from a smooth experience. According to him, modeling prepares an individual for a very specific set of conditions.
"Modelling trains you in a very specific environment; the camera sounds familiar, the commands are the same, and you condition yourself to react in a particular way," Rampal explained. This ingrained conditioning, however, became a hurdle when he faced the movie camera for the first time.
He recalled watching the initial rushes from his debut film, 'Moksha', and being struck by how stiff he appeared on screen. The actor realized that acting demanded a complete reversal of his modeling instincts. "Acting demands the opposite of modeling; you have to forget the camera entirely and become the character. That shift took time," he admitted.
Gratitude for Growth and 'Dhurandhar's' Triumph
Rampal expressed deep gratitude for the filmmakers and audiences who showed faith in him during those formative years. "I'm grateful that people believed in me, gave me opportunities, and allowed me the space to grow. Those repeated chances made all the difference," he stated. This foundation of patience and opportunity ultimately allowed him to evolve into the seasoned performer he is today, with a career spanning over 40 films since his 2001 debut in 'Pyaar Ishq Aur Mohabbat'.
His latest project, 'Dhurandhar', directed by Aditya Dhar and released in theaters on December 5, 2025, seems to be a culmination of that journey. The film, featuring a stellar cast including Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, and Sanjay Dutt, has received an overwhelming public response.
Overwhelmed by the love, Rampal took to social media to thank the audience. His post read, "Ladies & Gentlemen, we were not ready for this. Thank you for this incredible love, support, and acceptance you have given #dhurandhar." He also praised director Aditya Dhar for his vision, research, and unwavering calm during the demanding filming process.
Key Takeaways from Arjun Rampal's Journey
Arjun Rampal's reflections offer valuable insights into the Bollywood industry and personal perseverance:
- The skills from modeling do not directly translate to acting and can initially be a hindrance.
- Success in a new field requires unlearning old habits and a willingness to be vulnerable.
- Long-term growth in a competitive industry often depends on the faith and opportunities given by mentors and the audience.
As 'Dhurandhar' continues its successful run, Arjun Rampal's story stands as a testament to the resilience and continuous learning required to build a lasting career in Indian cinema, moving beyond the glamour of the runway to embody complex characters on the silver screen.
