Rajkummar Rao backs Deepika Padukone on Padmavati row

Mumbai: Coming out in support of makers of the film 'Padmavati', which has been facing protests from several sections of society for its alleged distortion of facts, Bollywood actor Rajkummar Rao has said people should not have preconceived notions about any film before seeing it.

Speaking at the CNN news 18 Indian of the Year awards here on Thursday night, Rao said, 'We should not have preconceived notions about any film before seeing it.We have a government certified body — the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) — which is responsible for passing the film.Once you see a film — I don't mean only Padmavati — you often find there's no distortion of facts (or history) as is alleged.

Rao, who was awarded the Indian of the Year award in Entertainment, said, 'I do feel nervous, but it's that nervous energy that keeps me going.It's been a wonderful journey so far.I saw this dream — of being a film actor — in this very city, Delhi.''In fact, my mother believed in this dream even more than me.So it feels like a dream.

It's tough in the film industry, but I'm grateful for the way my family, teachers, friends have stood by me.The way Patralekha has stood by me.I hope (this good fortune) continues,' said the actor who has won accolades for his performance in several films like 'Citylights ', 'Aligarh ' and India's nominee to the Oscars 'Newton'.

Asked if he thought Newton would win the Oscar in the Best Foreign language Film Category, Rao said, "We're keeping our fingers crossed.I'm pretty hopeful that we will make it."(UNI)