Overview

• Maalik, set in 1980s Allahabad, chronicles a gangster’s ruthless ascent and explores corruption and political violence.
• Pulkit says the role offered Rao fresh creative ground beyond small-town portrayals and praised his deep internal work on the character.
• Rao bulked up, grew his hair and beard, and delved into the character’s psyche to embody the theme of power.
• Produced by Tips Films’ Kumar Taurani and Northern Lights’ Jay Shewakramani, the ensemble cast includes Manushi Chhillar, Prosenjit Chatterjee, Huma Qureshi and others.
• Since a June teaser and poster, promotions have rolled out steadily with the film now due in cinemas on July 11.