Rajkummar Rao signs on for Bhushan Kumar-backed film on industrialist Srikanth Bolla

Rajkummar Rao will play the lead role in a film based on the life of visually impaired industrialist Srikanth Bolla. The project, which is being backed by Bhushan Kumar's T-Series and Chalk N Cheese Films, will be directed by Tushar Hiranandani and go on the floors in July.

The film has been written by Sumit Purohit and Jagdeep Sidhu. Born blind to poor, uneducated parents, Bolla faced hurdles from the time of his birth. His decision to pursue engineering also resulted in several hindrances, following which he was offered a place in the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology. After returning to India, Bolla established Bollant Industries, which provides employment and opportunities to the differently-abled. He was among the three Indians listed on the 2017 Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list.

Hiranandani said in a statement, "The minute we learned about Sri’s story we decided that this inspiring tale needs to reach the masses and what can be a better medium than cinema? We are truly blessed to be working with such powerhouses like Rajkummar Rao and Bhushanji. We really hope that Sri’s journey really tugs the heartstrings of audiences just like it did for all of us."

Calling Bolla an inspiration, Rao said, "It's indeed a privilege to play such an inspiring person who has been through a lot of hardships and despite that has risen like a phoenix! I am really looking forward to playing Srikanth. I'm happy to collaborate with Bhushan sir yet again on this compelling project."

The actor is working on another T-Series project, Bheed, directed by Anubhav Sinha. The artiste was last seen onscreen alongside Kriti Sanon in Hum Do Hamare Do (2021). The actor also has Mr and Mrs Mahi, which also stars Janhvi Kapoor, lined up for release.