Rajkummar Rao in talks to play Ujjwal Nikam in biopic after Aamir Khan steps back from lead role: Report

Rajkummar Rao is reportedly in discussions to portray India’s renowned public prosecutor, Ujjwal Nikam, in an upcoming biopic. Initially developed as a passion project for Aamir Khan, the film has undergone a shift in direction.
Rajkummar Rao may step into Aamir Khan’s shoes
According to Mid-Day, with Aamir stepping away from the lead role, the makers are now keen on bringing Rao on board. His ability to portray intense and layered characters has made him a strong contender for the part, although he is currently busy prepping for Vikramaditya Motwane’s next project, where he plays a sportsman.
The film’s team is said to be reworking the narrative style to suit Rao’s strengths, leaning toward a grittier, more realistic tone. Though not finalized, preliminary talks have been positive, and schedules are being worked out to accommodate the physically and emotionally demanding nature of both projects.
Aamir Khan to back the project
As reported by Pinkvilla, Aamir Khan had been associated with the Ujjwal Nikam biopic since the pre-pandemic era. Multiple drafts were written with his input, and at one point, he was expected to headline the film himself. However, the actor has now opted to focus on producing the film alongside Dinesh Vijan. Casting efforts for the new lead began after this decision, and the project is expected to go on floors in 2024.
With the creative direction evolving, the film might now reflect a rawer and more grounded treatment than initially planned.
Celebrating Ujjwal Nikam’s legal legacy
The biopic will chronicle the career of Ujjwal Nikam, the prosecutor behind some of India’s most landmark cases, including the 1993 Bombay Blasts, the 2008 Mumbai Attacks, and the Gulshan Kumar murder case. He has also led trials in sensitive rape and murder cases, building a legacy as one of India’s most successful legal minds. Honoured with the Padma Shri in 2016, Nikam’s journey from courtroom to courtroom is set to be brought alive on the big screen in what promises to be a powerful legal drama.